Truncus arteriosus

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Definition Symptoms Causes Risk factors When to seek medical advice

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Definition

Truncus arteriosus is a rare heart defect present at birth (congenital), in which one single great vessel (truncus) leads out of the heart, instead of a pulmonary artery and an aorta, and there’s a large hole between the bottom two chambers of the heart.

As a result of truncus arteriosus, oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood mix within the heart and are pumped both to the lungs and to the rest of the body. Due to excessive blood flow in the heart and lungs, truncus arteriosus can cause congestive heart failure, breathing difficulties and high blood pressure in the lungs. If left untreated, truncus arteriosus can lead to irreversible high blood pressure in the lungs.

Babies born with truncus arteriosus require surgery during the first several months of life to close the hole and repair the arteries. As part of the surgery, a tube, called a conduit, is placed in the heart to restore normal blood flow from the heart to the lungs. This conduit usually must be replaced as your child grows.

Corrective heart surgery has led to a tremendous improvement in the outlook for most babies born with truncus arteriosus. However, even after surgery, close follow-up is important for babies born with truncus arteriosus.

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Symptoms