Tetralogy of Fallot-A literature review

Tetralogy of Fallot is a combination of four specific cardiac abnormalities. (a) A ventricular septal defect (VSD), (b) pulmonary valve stenosis/right ventricular outflow tract obstruction, (c) aorta overriding the VSD, and (d) right ventricular hypertrophy. This review attempts to outline the current literature regarding embryology, morphology, pathophysiology, ultrasound appearances and the current treatments/outcomes of infants with Tetralogy of Fallot. Tetralogy of Fallot is the most commonly occurring conotruncal anomaly. Here, the aim is to present the ultrasound features, with examples of Tetralogy of Fallot along with the story post birth in terms of surgical treatment. This information was gathered doing a literature search using PubMed and the University of South Australia library database, as well as through information provided by the Royal Children's Hospital Cardiology department, via fact sheets. With early diagnosis under ultrasound, preparations can be made and counseling provided to organize for intervention and further assessment after birth. With current surgical intervention, the survival rate past the age of 10 is now over 92%, when, 50years ago, it was only 50%.