Tricuspid Atresia Treatment

Tricuspid valves are located between the right atrium and right ventricle of the heart. When the valves are hard and does not allow the blood to flow in right ventricle, the right ventricle remains undeveloped. This condition of the valves is called tricuspid atresia.

The condition is congenital i.e present since birth.

Down syndrome or parents with congenital heart defect, mothers who had - viral illness in early pregnancy, alcohol consumption in pregnancy, are diabetic or are under certain medication. All these conditions increase the chances of tricuspid atresia.

Tricuspid atresia can cause fatal conditions such as stroke or heart attack.

The main treatment for the condition is surgery. Surgical procedures for tricuspid atresia include – • Balloon septostomy – the surgery is done creating an atrial septal defect. Depending on the condition of the child, it may be followed with pulmonary artery banding or modified BT shunt. • The Fontan procedure – it is performed in children 2-5 years old. A path is formed to make the de-oxygenated blood flow into the arteries direct into the lungs. • The Glenn procedure – the procedure is done in children between 4-6 months. It allows the direct flow of blood in the lungs. This reduces the workload on left ventricle and prevents its damage.

The outcome of the surgical treatment is generally not good in children. If the surgery is not successful one may require heart transplantation.

A baby with tricuspid atresia show following symptoms – • Cyanosis of skin and lips • Slow growth • Abnormal heart sounds • Rapid breathing or shortness of breath • Feeding difficulty • Heart failure symptoms may develop

Tricuspid valve cannot be replaced. The condition is of defect in tricuspid valve cannot be treated but it is possible to relieve the symptoms and prevent complications by ensuring enough blood flow in the lungs.

Yes, tricuspid atresia can be fatal and is a serious heart condition.

Babies with tricuspid atresia after undergoing surgery, need regular follow up. It is important to keep a check on the condition of the heart. As one may require more surgeries.