Best Tetralogy Of Fallot Doctors in Visakhapatnam

Types of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

Tetralogy of Fallot primarily manifests as four distinct anatomical abnormalities:

• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD): This involves a hole between the two lower chambers of the heart.

• Pulmonary Stenosis: This feature entails the narrowing of the pulmonary valve or right ventricular outflow tract, which reduces blood flow to the lungs.

• Overriding Aorta: Here, the aorta is displaced towards the right and partially receives blood from both ventricles.

• Right Ventricular Hypertrophy: This characterises a thickening of the muscle wall of the right ventricle.

Symptoms of Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

The symptoms identified by doctors specialised in tetralogy of Fallot treatment doctors can vary in severity but commonly include:

• Cyanosis or a bluish tinge to the skin, due to low oxygen levels

• Shortness of breath, especially during feeding or activity

• Fatigue and poor weight gain

• Tet spells, sudden episodes of severe cyanosis, often triggered by crying or feeding

Tests to Diagnose Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

To diagnose TOF, the cardiac doctors treating tetralogy of Fallot at Apollo Hospitals Vizag commonly utilise:

• Echocardiogram: To help visualise the defects of the heart.

• Cardiac Catheterisation: To assess blood flow and pressure.

• Pulse oximetry: To monitor the oxygen level in the blood.

• Chest X-ray: To find structural abnormalities indicative of TOF.

• Electrocardiogram (EKG): To record the electrical signals in the heart to detect irregularities.

Treatment or Surgery Options for Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) at Apollo Hospitals Vizag

At Apollo Hospitals Vizag, cardiovascular surgeons employ a range of surgical procedures:

• Temporary Shunt Procedure: First, a temporary shunt might be placed to improve blood flow to the lungs.

• Complete Repair: This involves closing the VSD, relieving the pulmonary stenosis, and repositioning the aorta. The pulmonary valve may also be repaired or replaced if required.

• Pulmonary Valve Repair or Replacement: If required, tetralogy of Fallot treatment doctors recommend the pulmonary valve to be either repaired or replaced with a prosthetic one.

• Regular Follow-ups: Post-surgery, regular check-ups are necessary to monitor heart health and detect any potential complications.