Tetralogy of Fallot

Overview

Mayo Clinic has expertise and experience in treating tetralogy of Fallot and other congenital heart diseases in children and adults. Cardiologists, surgeons and other specialists work closely together to provide the latest care in an efficient and coordinated way. Mayo also conducts research to determine the most effective treatment strategies. Mayo Clinic in Rochester has a center dedicated to the needs of congenital heart patients.

Diagnosis

Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common of the cyanotic heart defects, which cause the skin to turn blue due to poorly oxygenated blood. The diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot is usually confirmed with an echocardiogram (ultrasound of the heart). Other tests may include an electrocardiogram (ECG), to look for increased right heart size and pressure and an X-ray of the chest to look for heart enlargement. A cardiac catheterization may be required to evaluate blood supply to the lungs.

Treatment Options

Surgery to redirect the blood flow inside the heart so that it goes in the proper direction (reparative surgery) has become a highly effective long-term treatment for tetralogy of Fallot, especially when done early in childhood. Read more about Tetralogy of Fallot treatment options.

• Treatment in Arizona
• Treatment in Florida
• Treatment in Minnesota
• Treatment of Children & Adolescents

About Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four ("tetra") abnormalities of the heart, which were first described by a French physician, Dr. Etienne Fallot, in 1888. About 3,000 babies are born each year in the United States with tetralogy of Fallot, accounting for 10 percent of all congenital heart defects. Most people born with tetralogy of Fallot will have surgery on their heart during childhood.

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