Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) Repair & Arterial Switch
Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) is a rare congenital heart defect where the pulmonary veins (which should carry oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the left atrium) connect abnormally to the right side of the heart. As a result, oxygenated and deoxygenated blood mix, leading to low oxygen levels in the body.
If left untreated, TAPVC can be life-threatening in newborns and infants.
Why is Surgery Needed?
Surgery is the only treatment option for TAPVC. Without repair, infants may suffer from:
- Severe cyanosis (bluish skin from low oxygen)
- Rapid breathing and difficulty feeding
- Heart failure
- High risk of mortality in early life
How is TAPVC Repair with Arterial Switch Performed?
The surgery is carried out under general anesthesia by a pediatric cardiac surgeon and involves:
- Connecting pulmonary veins to the left atrium Corrects the abnormal drainage so oxygen-rich blood flows properly.
- Arterial Switch Procedure The aorta and pulmonary artery are switched to their correct anatomical positions if associated with transposition of the great arteries (TGA).
- Closing any associated defects such as an atrial septal defect (ASD).
Benefits of TAPVC Repair with Arterial Switch
- Restores normal oxygen circulation
- Improves heart and lung function
- Reduces symptoms such as breathing difficulty and fatigue
- Enhances survival and long-term health
- Provides a chance for normal growth and development in children
Risks and Complications
As with all open-heart surgeries, risks may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
- Pulmonary vein narrowing (stenosis)
- Heart failure in rare cases
- Need for additional surgeries later in life
Recovery After Surgery
Recovery involves:
- Hospital stay of 2 to 3 weeks depending on the child’s condition
- Intensive monitoring in a pediatric cardiac ICU
- Medications to support heart function
- Regular follow-ups with a pediatric cardiologist
- Long-term healthy lifestyle and cardiac care
Conclusion
TAPVC Repair with Arterial Switch is a life-saving surgery for infants born with complex congenital heart defects. By correcting abnormal vein connections and ensuring proper blood circulation, this surgery greatly improves survival rates and quality of life. At CureU Healthcare, we provide advanced pediatric cardiac surgery with compassionate care, ensuring the best outcomes for every child.