Tetralogy of Fallot Save

Tetralogy of Fallot: A Common Congenital Heart Defect

Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart defect that affects the structure of the heart. This condition is present at birth and can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. It is named after the French physician Étienne-Louis Arthur Fallot, who first described the condition in 1888.

There are four specific defects that make up the tetralogy of Fallot:

1. Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
2. Pulmonary stenosis
3. Overriding aorta
4. Right ventricular hypertrophy

The ventricular septal defect is a hole in the wall between the two lower chambers of the heart, the left and right ventricles. Pulmonary stenosis is a narrowing of the pulmonary valve and artery that connect the heart to the lungs. Overriding aorta is when the aorta, the main artery that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body, is positioned over the ventricular septal defect instead of the left ventricle. Right ventricular hypertrophy means that the muscle of the right ventricle is thicker than normal.

Some common symptoms of tetralogy of Fallot include:

• Cyanosis (blue tint to skin and lips)
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid breathing or panting
• Fainting
• Clubbing of fingers and toes

The exact cause of tetralogy of Fallot is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is estimated to affect approximately 1 in every 2,000 babies born worldwide. Diagnosis is typically made through a heart ultrasound or echocardiogram.

While tetralogy of Fallot is a serious condition, it can be treated with surgery to correct the defects in the heart. Most children who undergo surgery go on to lead normal, healthy lives. However, lifelong medical care and monitoring may be necessary to manage any ongoing symptoms or complications.

If you suspect that your child may have tetralogy of Fallot or any other congenital heart defect, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to receive prompt diagnosis and treatment.