Medical Services

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is a rare congenital heart disease that is made up of four heart problems: a ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary stenosis, right ventricular hypertrophy, and an overlaying aorta. These defects distort normal blood flow, therefore depriving the body of oxygen.
Infants with TOF sometimes develop cyanosis—bluish skin—because of their low oxygen levels. Other symptoms include dyspnoea, problems eating, fainting, and "tet spells," in which case sudden cyanosis results from changing oxygen levels. The degree of the abnormalities—especially pulmonary stenosis—will decide the degree of symptoms.
A diagnosis is usually confirmed by echocardiography, chest X-rays, electrocardiograms (ECG), and cardiac catheterisation. It is very important to have surgery as soon as possible. Usually, a full surgical repair is needed, where the larger pulmonary artery improves blood flow and the VSD is fixed. Sometimes temporary therapies like a shunt are required prior to corrective surgery.
Although most children with TOF enjoy normal lives with suitable treatment, lifetime cardiac monitoring is critically essential. Advances in paediatric cardiology have significantly increased survival rates, enabling children to enjoy an excellent quality of life. Regular visits assist in finding and managing potential issues, therefore ensuring long-term heart health.