How is a Blalock-Taussig shunt performed?

Correct option is D

The Blalock-Taussig shunt is a palliative surgical procedure used to increase pulmonary blood flow in children with cyanotic congenital heart defects like Tetralogy of Fallot. It involves creating an anastomosis between the subclavian artery and the pulmonary artery, usually on the same side (right or left). This improves oxygenation by directing more blood to the lungs.
Explanation of options: (a) Anastomosis of the ascending aorta and right pulmonary artery – This is not the technique used in the Blalock-Taussig shunt. It carries risks of high-pressure arterial flow. (b) Anastomosis of the upper descending aorta and left pulmonary artery – This procedure is not consistent with the Blalock-Taussig shunt's typical anatomy. (c) Anastomosis of the superior venacava and left pulmonary artery – This describes a Glenn shunt, not the Blalock-Taussig shunt. (d) Anastomosis of the subclavian artery and right pulmonary artery – This is the correct answer. It is the classic approach to establish a systemic-to-pulmonary shunt to increase oxygenation.