Transcatheter pulmonary vein recanalisation is challenging. Herein, we described a novel technique facilitating the recanalisation of occluded three pulmonary veins in two small children. This technique enhances the catheter’s alignment and stability during the recanalisation process. Referred to as the “anchoring guide catheter” technique, it can be applied only when the ipsilateral vein is patent.

Common pulmonary vein atresia is a rare and usually fatal congenital anomaly, in which the pulmonary veins come together to form a confluence that does not connect to the left atrium. We report our experience with three cases of common pulmonary vein atresia and review the literature on this anomaly. The diagnosis of common pulmonary vein atresia must be entertained in any newborn that presents with cyanosis, refractory acidosis, and decreased systemic perfusion within the first 48 hours of life. Echocardiography is a useful screening tool, but cardiac catheterisation is the preferred diagnostic tool. Common pulmonary vein atresia can be fatal without surgical intervention, but survival after surgery continues to be poor.

We describe two patients, aged seven and 21 years, with unilateral atresia of a solitary pulmonary vein. Until now, to the best or our knowledge, this condition has been reported only twice. Although symptoms, diagnostic measures and treatment have been described in detail, clinical diagnosis is still difficult.