The information on this website is not intended for diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your physician for health concerns.

+90 850 321 50 00

Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)

A rare congenital heart defect in which the pulmonary veins drain into the systemic venous system instead of the left atrium.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return (TAPVR)?

In total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) all four pulmonary veins drain into the right atrium or systemic venous system rather than the left atrium. Oxygenated blood returning from the lungs therefore enters the right heart, and systemic circulation depends on an atrial septal defect.

TAPVR is classified into four types: supracardiac (most common), cardiac, infracardiac and mixed. In the infracardiac type the pulmonary veins drain below the diaphragm into systemic veins and pulmonary venous obstruction frequently coexists.

Obstructive TAPVR is a neonatal emergency presenting with early cyanosis, severe pulmonary edema and shock. Diagnosis is made by echocardiography and CT angiography; treatment is emergency surgical repair.

Symptoms

Cyanosis in the newborn
Tachypnea and respiratory distress
Signs of pulmonary edema
Features of heart failure
Poor feeding and lethargy
Hepatomegaly
Murmur from right heart enlargement

Risk Factors

Family history of congenital heart disease
Heterotaxy syndromes
Chromosomal anomalies
Maternal diabetes
Maternal teratogen exposure
Infections during pregnancy
Advanced maternal age

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Cyanosis and respiratory distress in a newborn
  • Pulmonary edema and shock
  • Marked deterioration during feeding
  • Abnormal prenatal echocardiography findings
  • Regular follow-up after surgery

Treatment Methods

01
Urgent stabilization and oxygen support
02
Prostaglandin and inotropic support
03
Mechanical ventilation when required
04
Emergency surgical repair (anastomosis of pulmonary veins to the left atrium)
05
Closure of the atrial septal defect
06
Long-term surveillance for postoperative pulmonary vein stenosis

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Kardiyoloji Department

Let us help you

You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

Book AppointmentContact Us

Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Kardiyoloji

Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

Kardiyoloji

Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

Kardiyoloji

Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

Kardiyoloji

A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

Kardiyoloji

Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

Kardiyoloji

Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

Kardiyoloji

Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

Kardiyoloji

Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.