Cœur en sabot

Cœur en sabot is a term used in medicine to describe a specific appearance of the heart on a chest radiograph. It is a French term that translates to "clog-shaped heart". This condition is typically associated with congenital heart disease, particularly Tetralogy of Fallot.

Overview

The term "Cœur en sabot" is used to describe the appearance of the heart in certain conditions where it takes on a shape that resembles a wooden shoe or clog. This is typically seen in conditions where the right ventricle of the heart is enlarged, causing the heart to take on this distinctive shape.

Association with Tetralogy of Fallot

The most common condition associated with a "Cœur en sabot" appearance is Tetralogy of Fallot. This is a type of congenital heart disease that is characterized by four key features: a ventricular septal defect, pulmonary stenosis, right ventricular hypertrophy, and an overriding aorta. The right ventricular hypertrophy, or enlargement of the right ventricle, is what gives the heart its clog-like appearance on a chest radiograph.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a "Cœur en sabot" is typically made through a chest radiograph, also known as a chest X-ray. This imaging study allows doctors to visualize the heart and its chambers, and can reveal the distinctive clog-like shape of the heart that is characteristic of this condition. Other imaging studies, such as an echocardiogram, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

The treatment for conditions associated with a "Cœur en sabot" appearance, such as Tetralogy of Fallot, typically involves surgical correction. This may involve a procedure to repair the ventricular septal defect and relieve the pulmonary stenosis, which can help to reduce the enlargement of the right ventricle and restore the heart to a more normal shape and function.

See also

• Congenital heart disease
• Tetralogy of Fallot
• Chest radiograph
• Echocardiogram