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Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) is a congenital heart defect in which the two main arteries leaving the heart, the aorta and the pulmonary artery, are switched in position. This results in oxygen-poor blood being circulated to the body and oxygen-rich blood being circulated back to the lungs, instead of to the body. Without treatment, this condition is life-threatening shortly after birth.
Management Option | Description | Comments |
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Prostaglandin Infusion | Administration of prostaglandin E1 to keep the ductus arteriosus open, allowing some mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. | This is an emergency measure used to improve oxygenation until definitive surgery can be performed. |
Atrial Septostomy | A procedure in which a hole is created or enlarged in the atrial septum to allow more mixing of blood between the right and left atria. | This is usually performed in the neonatal period as a temporary measure to improve oxygenation before surgery. |
Arterial Switch Operation (ASO) | Definitive surgical correction where the aorta and pulmonary artery are switched back to their normal positions. | This is the most common and preferred treatment for TGA, typically performed within the first few weeks of life. It provides a long-term solution. |
Atrial Switch Operation (Senning or Mustard Procedure) | An older surgical technique where the blood flow is redirected at the atrial level. | Used less frequently now but may be considered in specific cases. Long-term follow-up is required for complications. |
Long-term Follow-up | Ongoing cardiac care to monitor heart function, potential complications, and overall health. | Even after successful surgery, regular follow-up with a cardiologist is crucial to detect any late complications such as arrhythmias or valve issues. |