Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)

Understanding Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)

Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR) is a congenital heart defect where the pulmonary veins, which normally carry oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the heart, are abnormally connected.

In Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return , these veins do not connect to the left atrium as they should, but instead connect to either the right atrium or to another vein or heart chamber.

This causes a mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood, leading to reduced oxygen supply to the body.

Side Effects of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)

The side effects of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return  can vary depending on the specific type and severity of the defect. Common symptoms may include:

• Cyanosis (bluish tint to the skin due to lack of oxygen)
• Rapid or difficult breathing
• Poor feeding and growth in infants
• Fatigue or lethargy
• Respiratory infections
• Heart failure in severe cases

How is Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR) Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return typically involves several tests and procedures:

• Fetal Echocardiography: This ultrasound of the baby's heart during pregnancy can detect abnormalities.
• Echocardiogram (Echo): This ultrasound of the heart after birth helps confirm the diagnosis and assess the heart's structure and function.
• Chest X-ray and ECG (Electrocardiogram): These tests may provide additional information about the heart's condition.
• Cardiac Catheterization: In some cases, a thin, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into the heart through a blood vessel to further evaluate the defect.

Potential Treatment of Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)

Treatment for TAPVR typically involves surgery shortly after birth to correct the abnormal connection of the pulmonary veins. The goal of surgery is to reroute the pulmonary veins to the left atrium where they should naturally drain. 

• Surgical Repair: The most common procedure is known as the "rerouting" or "rechanneling" procedure, where the abnormal connections are corrected. This surgery is crucial to improve oxygenation and overall heart function.
• Postoperative Care: After surgery, patients will require careful monitoring in the hospital to ensure proper recovery. Medications may be prescribed to manage heart function and prevent complications.
• Long-term Follow-up: Regular follow-up visits with a cardiologist are essential to monitor the heart's function and development as the child grows.

👉 Contact us for further information and receive a complimentary consultation.