Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital (existing from birth) heart abnormality that affects normal blood flow through the heart. Tests like echocardiography, electrocardiograms, chest x-rays, pulse oximetry, and cardiac catheterization can be used to diagnose it.
During surgery to treat tetralogy of fallot, the surgeon will make sure that oxygenated and deoxygenated blood flow in the proper directions in order to increase blood flow to the lungs. Either the VSD or ventricular septal defect(a hole in the septum) will be closed by the surgeon, or the narrow pulmonary blood veins will be widened.
By correcting these two flaws, issues brought on by the other two flaws are eliminated. The right ventricle will regain its normal thickness once it is no longer required to exert as much effort to pump blood to the lungs. Once the VSD is corrected, only blood that is oxygenated will exit the left ventricle and enter the aorta.
The child will require at least 3 or 4 additional weeks at home to heal. Recovery from major surgery could take 6 to 8 weeks. Some kids with tetralogy of Fallot might need to restrict certain forms of physical activity, such as running or exercise. Every child has different restrictions. After surgery, there will likely be some pain, and the doctor will usually give medicines to help with that.