Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a cardiac anomaly that refers to a combination of four related heart defects that commonly occur together.

Types of Tetralogy of Fallot

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

It is a hole between the right and left pumping chambers of the heart.

Pulmonary Stenosis

It is the narrowing of the pulmonary valve opening which prevents the outflow of blood from the right ventricles.

Overriding Aorta

The major blood vessel from the heart to the body connects to the heart a bit further to the right than normal.

Hypertrophy of the Right Ventricle

The right-sided pumping chamber is thicker than normal because it’s pumping blood at a higher-than-normal pressure.

Signs & Symptoms of Tetralogy of Fallot

Cyanosis (blue color of skin and mucus membrane)
Delayed growth and puberty
Dizziness, fainting, or seizures
Higher risk of endocarditis infection
Irregular heartbeat

Treatment of Tetralogy of Fallot

Complete Intracardiac Repair

The pulmonary valve is widened or replaced through surgery. This improves the blood flow to the lungs. The remaining defects – ventricular septal, overriding aorta, and right ventricular hypertrophy are also fixed by repairs that help prevent low-oxygen blood from flowing into the aorta.

Temporary or Palliative Surgery

This is a temporary measure done in cases where the baby is too small or weak to undergo complete surgery. A secondary route is created by placing a small tube called a shunt between a large artery and the pulmonary artery. The full repair is done later when the baby is strong enough.