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Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)

A cyanotic congenital heart disease in which the aorta and pulmonary artery are transposed and which requires emergency intervention shortly after birth.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

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

What is Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)?

Transposition of the great arteries is a congenital heart disease in which the embryologic connections of the aorta and pulmonary artery on the ventricles are transposed. Systemic and pulmonary circulations run in parallel; mixing at atrial, ventricular or ductal level is essential for the newborn to survive.

Progressive cyanosis, respiratory distress and metabolic acidosis develop within the first hours after birth. On echocardiography the abnormal origin of the great arteries and ventricular outflows are clearly visualized. Diagnosis is urgent.

Prostaglandin E1 infusion provides temporary stabilization by keeping the ductus arteriosus open. Balloon atrial septostomy (Rashkind procedure) increases intracardiac mixing. Definitive treatment is the arterial switch operation (Jatene) performed within the first few days after birth.

Symptoms

Progressive cyanosis after birth
Respiratory distress and tachypnea
Feeding difficulty
Metabolic acidosis
Hypoxia (low pulse oximetry)
Hypothermia
Shock and circulatory failure

Risk Factors

Maternal pregestational diabetes
Maternal retinoid use
Family history of congenital heart disease
Chromosomal anomalies
Male sex (more common)
Gestational teratogen exposure

When to See a Doctor?

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

  • When cyanosis is detected after birth
  • When pulse oximetry is low
  • In respiratory distress and feeding difficulty
  • When antenatal diagnosis is made for delivery planning
  • Family history of congenital heart disease

Treatment Methods

01
Prostaglandin E1 infusion (ductal patency)
02
Balloon atrial septostomy (Rashkind)
03
Detailed anatomy by echocardiography
04
Arterial switch operation (Jatene)
05
Postoperative intensive care follow-up
06
Long-term pediatric cardiology follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

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

Learn About Çocuk Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Department

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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.