Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart disease and is caused by four different abnormalities in the baby’s heart structure. This heart disease blocks the heart’s normal blood flow and makes it unable to meet the body’s need for oxygenated blood. Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common type of heart disease and can lead to serious symptoms in babies, known as blue baby syndrome. This article will provide detailed information about what Tetralogy of Fallot is, its symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.

Tetralogy of Fallot is caused by four basic congenital heart abnormalities. These abnormalities are:

1. Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): An opening or hole between the left and right ventricles of the heart.
2. Pulmonary Stenosis: Reduced blood flow due to narrowing or blockage of the pulmonary artery.
3. Incorrect Positioning of the Right Ventricle in Relation to the Aorta: The right ventricle causes the aorta to protrude towards the left ventricle.
4. Right Ventricular Hypertrophy: Thickening and enlargement of the right ventricle, in which case the heart works weaker compared to the left side.

The combination of these abnormalities interferes with the heart’s normal blood flow and leads to insufficient pumping of oxygenated blood. Therefore, without enough oxygenated blood in the body, babies develop symptoms such as bluish skin coloration (cyanosis) and breathing difficulties.

Tetralogy of Fallot is diagnosed by ultrasound of the heart (echocardiography) and other medical imaging tests performed soon after birth or during infancy. Treatment may vary depending on the condition of the baby and the severity of the symptoms. Surgical intervention is usually performed in the first year of life and aims to correct heart defects. Surgical repair may include closing the ventricular septal defect, widening the pulmonary artery and adjusting the connection of the right ventricle to the aorta. Through this operation, blood flow is normalized and the babies’ need for oxygenated blood is met.

In some cases, surgery may not be performed after the first year of life or repeated operations may be necessary. After surgery, babies are followed up regularly and their heart function is closely monitored.

Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart disease that can cause severe symptoms in babies. This disease is caused by the presence of four different abnormalities in the heart structures and includes symptoms known as blue baby syndrome in babies. The treatment is usually surgical, which restores the babies’ heart function and promotes a healthy life. However, it should be remembered that such surgeries are risky and serious operations and should be performed under the guidance and follow-up of specialist physicians. In this way, babies can grow up healthy and lead a normal life.