Truncus Arteriosus

Truncus arteriosusTruncus arteriosus (TA) occurs when a common artery arises from the heart giving rise to the aorta and pulmonary arteries. This lesion results from failure of septation of the embryologic truncus and may occur as an isolated defect or associated with DiGeorge syndrome. It is classified primarily by the origins and configuration of the pulmonary arteries. TA is associated with VSDVentricular septal defect (VSD), variable truncal valve override into the RVBorderline right ventricle (RV), right aortic arch, and interruption of the aortic arch. The truncal valve is most commonly tricuspid but may have one to four cusps; valvar regurgitation and/or stenosis portend poor prognosis. Surgical correction consists of septating the heart by closing VSDVentricular septal defect (VSD) and directing the LV to the truncal valve, establishing the RVBorderline right ventricle (RV) to PA continuity, and arch reconstruction if required. Surgical repair is associated with good outcome, with increased morbidity associated with prematurityPrematurity, low birth weight, aortic arch interruption, and valvar dysplasia andNeonatal cardiovascular surgery regurgitation.