Alternative Names
Tri atresia
Definition of Tricuspid atresia
Tricuspid atresia is a type of in which the tricuspid heart valve is missing or abnormally developed. The defect blocks blood flow from the right atrium to the right ventricle.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Tricuspid atresia is an uncommon form of congenital heart disease that affects about 5 in every 100,000 live births. Twenty percent of patients with this condition will also have have other heart problems.
Signs and tests
This condition may be discovered during routine prenatal ultrasound imaging or when the baby is examined shortly after birth. Cyanosis is present from birth. A heart murmur is often present at birth and may increase in loudness over several months.
Treatment
Once the diagnosis is made, the baby will be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A breathing machine (ventilator) may be needed to help the baby breathe. A medicine called prostaglandin E1 is used to maintain circulation of blood to the lungs.
Expectations (prognosis)
Improvement can be expected with most surgical procedures. Unexpected death may occur with heart .
Review
Kurt R. Schumacher, MD, Pediatric Cardiology, University of Michigan Congenital Heart Center, Ann Arbor, MI. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 12/21/2009
