What long-term complication frequently develops in patients following a technically successful full surgical repair of TOF?
Answer
Pulmonary regurgitation (leaking)
Even after a successful complete repair of Tetralogy of Fallot, which involves closing the VSD and relieving the pulmonary outflow obstruction, long-term hemodynamic changes persist. Specifically, the pulmonary valve, which was often narrowed (pulmonary stenosis) and likely patched or replaced during the initial operation, frequently develops pulmonary regurgitation over time. This leakage forces the right ventricle to handle a larger volume of blood during the resting phase of the heartbeat, leading to increased volume load and potential enlargement of the right ventricular muscle wall over many years.
Related Questions
Which congenital heart defect is historically the most significant cause associated with the term "blue baby"?What structural abnormality within Tetralogy of Fallot is described as a large hole between the two lower chambers of the heart?What physiological state is the bluish discoloration of the skin in a "blue baby" an outward manifestation of?What was the primary goal of the Blalock-Taussig (BT) shunt performed as an initial palliative approach for TOF patients?What long-term complication frequently develops in patients following a technically successful full surgical repair of TOF?What frequent, severe episodes, where the baby would become intensely cyanotic, were characteristic of life with uncorrected TOF?In TOF anatomy, what is the significance of the "overriding aorta" positioning?What crucial factor significantly impacts the prognosis for a child diagnosed with TOF in the contemporary medical era?What specific long-term factor affecting lifespan post-repair is emphasized as requiring non-negotiable follow-up adherence?What characterized the life expectancy for infants with severe TOF prior to the routine advent of modern cardiac surgery?