Transposition of the Great Arteries
Transposition of the Great Arteries (pronounced: trans-po-si-tion of the great ar-ter-ies) is a serious but rare heart defect present at birth (congenital), in which the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed (transposed). The etymology of the term comes from the Latin transpositio, meaning "reversal", and arteria, meaning "windpipe, artery".
Definition
Transposition of the Great Arteries is a congenital heart defect where the two main arteries leaving the heart, the pulmonary artery and the aorta, are switched in position, or "transposed". This condition disrupts the normal flow of blood through the heart, resulting in oxygen-poor blood being circulated to the body.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Transposition of the Great Arteries typically appear within the first hours to weeks of life and may include cyanosis (a bluish coloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen), shortness of breath, lack of appetite, and poor weight gain.
Causes
The exact cause of Transposition of the Great Arteries is unknown, but it is believed to occur during the first 8 weeks of fetal growth when the heart is developing. Some genetic factors and environmental conditions may increase the risk.
Treatment
Treatment for Transposition of the Great Arteries involves a surgical procedure known as an arterial switch operation. This surgery is typically performed within the first weeks of life.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Transposition of the Great Arteries
- Wikipedia's article - Transposition of the Great Arteries
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