Ventriculo-arterial discordance, isolated

Ventriculo-arterial discordance, isolated is a rare congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal connection between the ventricles of the heart and the major arteries. In a healthy heart, the left ventricle pumps blood into the aorta, which distributes oxygen-rich blood to the body, while the right ventricle pumps blood into the pulmonary artery, which carries oxygen-poor blood to the lungs. In ventriculo-arterial discordance, these connections are reversed: the right ventricle is connected to the aorta, and the left ventricle is connected to the pulmonary artery. This condition is a form of congenital heart disease and is present at birth.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Symptoms of ventriculo-arterial discordance can vary widely among individuals, depending on the presence and severity of associated heart defects. Common symptoms include cyanosis (a bluish tint to the skin, lips, and fingernails), difficulty breathing, poor feeding, and failure to thrive. Diagnosis is typically made through imaging studies such as echocardiography, which allows doctors to visualize the heart's structure and blood flow.

Treatment

Treatment for ventriculo-arterial discordance often involves surgical intervention to correct the abnormal connections between the heart and the major arteries. The specific type of surgery depends on the individual's condition and the presence of other heart defects. Common surgical procedures include the arterial switch operation, which restores the correct connections between the ventricles and the major arteries.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with isolated ventriculo-arterial discordance has improved significantly with advances in surgical techniques and postoperative care. Many individuals who undergo successful surgery can lead normal, active lives, although they may require lifelong monitoring for potential heart-related issues.

Epidemiology

Isolated ventriculo-arterial discordance is a rare condition, though the exact incidence is difficult to determine due to its often being associated with other congenital heart defects. It is one of several types of cardiac malposition and transposition of the great arteries.

See Also

• Congenital heart defect
• Transposition of the great arteries
• Echocardiography