Double outlet right ventricle

From Food & Medicine Encyclopedia


Double outlet right ventricle
Synonyms DORV
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Cyanosis, shortness of breath, heart murmur
Complications Heart failure, pulmonary hypertension
Onset Congenital
Duration Chronic
Types Tetralogy of Fallot-type, Transposition of the great arteries-type
Causes Genetic mutations, environmental factors
Risks Family history, maternal diabetes, maternal alcohol use
Diagnosis Echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, chest X-ray
Differential diagnosis Tetralogy of Fallot, ventricular septal defect, transposition of the great arteries
Prevention Prenatal care, genetic counseling
Treatment Surgical repair, medications
Medication Diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers
Prognosis Variable, depends on surgical outcome
Frequency Rare
Deaths Depends on severity and treatment


Double Outlet Right Ventricle (DORV) is a congenital heart defect where both the pulmonary artery and the aorta arise from the right ventricle. This condition is often associated with a ventricular septal defect (VSD), which allows blood to mix between the two ventricles.

Overview[edit]

In a normal heart, the right ventricle pumps blood to the lungs through the pulmonary artery, while the left ventricle pumps blood to the rest of the body through the aorta. In a heart with DORV, both of these major arteries come out of the right ventricle. This means that oxygen-rich blood from the lungs and oxygen-poor blood from the body are mixed together before being pumped out to the body.

Symptoms[edit]

Symptoms of DORV can vary greatly depending on the size and location of the VSD and the degree of pulmonary stenosis. Common symptoms include cyanosis (bluish color of the skin, lips, and nail beds), shortness of breath, rapid breathing, poor feeding, and poor weight gain.

Diagnosis[edit]

DORV is typically diagnosed through a combination of echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, and cardiac MRI. These tests can help determine the structure of the heart and the flow of blood through the heart.

Treatment[edit]

Treatment for DORV typically involves surgery to redirect the flow of blood through the heart. The specific type of surgery will depend on the individual's specific heart anatomy. In some cases, multiple surgeries may be needed.

Prognosis[edit]

The prognosis for individuals with DORV can vary greatly depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's overall health. With appropriate treatment, many individuals with DORV can lead healthy, productive lives.

See Also[edit]

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