What frequent, severe episodes, where the baby would become intensely cyanotic, were characteristic of life with uncorrected TOF?
Answer
"Tet spells" or "blue spells"
Before modern cardiac surgery made correction routine, infants suffering from significant cyanotic heart disease, particularly TOF, endured chronic low oxygenation. This chronic state was punctuated by acute, severe episodes known as "tet spells" or "blue spells." During these spells, the infant experienced intense cyanosis and profound hypoxia, often requiring immediate emergency medical intervention. The occurrence of these spells was a clear indicator of the severe systemic strain caused by the uncorrected plumbing issues within the heart.
Related Questions
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