Dextro-Transposition of the great arteries

Dextro-Transposition of the Great Arteries (d-TGA) is a congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal arrangement of the two main arteries that carry blood away from the heart. In a normal heart, the pulmonary artery carries oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs, while the aorta carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body. In d-TGA, these arteries are reversed, leading to a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Causes

The exact cause of d-TGA is unknown, but it is believed to occur during the first 8 weeks of pregnancy when the baby's heart is developing. Some research suggests that certain genetic factors or environmental exposures may increase the risk, but more studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Symptoms

Babies with d-TGA often show signs of the condition soon after birth. Symptoms may include cyanosis (a bluish color of the skin, lips, and nails), rapid breathing, poor feeding, and lethargy. Without treatment, d-TGA can lead to heart failure, organ damage, and death.

Diagnosis

d-TGA is usually diagnosed soon after birth using a combination of physical examination, echocardiogram, and cardiac catheterization. These tests can help doctors visualize the structure of the heart and the flow of blood, confirming the diagnosis and guiding treatment.

Treatment

The primary treatment for d-TGA is surgery. The most common procedure is the arterial switch operation, in which the surgeon switches the positions of the pulmonary artery and the aorta and reattaches the coronary arteries. This operation is typically performed within the first few weeks of life.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and treatment, most children with d-TGA can lead healthy lives. However, they will need lifelong follow-up care with a cardiologist to monitor their heart function and manage any potential complications.

File:Dextro-Transposition of the Great Arteries.jpg

Illustration of a heart with Dextro-Transposition of the Great Arteries

See also

• Congenital heart defect
• Heart surgery
• Cardiology

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