Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA)
Transposition of the great arteries is a congenital heart defect. It is present at birth. The two major blood vessels that carry blood away from the heart, the aorta and the pulmonary artery are switched (transposed).
Symptoms
Symptoms of TGA often appear shortly after birth. There is not enough oxygen in the blood pumped to the body so blueness of the skin, is often one of the first signs. Infants may have trouble breathing and problems eating.
Tests
In order to diagnose TGA, a heart ultrasound (echocardiogram) will be done. Sometimes infants need a cardiac catheterization. A catheter (tube) is inserted into the big blood vessel in the leg. It goes up into the heart to look at the heart structure.
Treatment
The infant will need a medicine through an IV (intravenous line). This medicine helps to increase the blood flow through the lungs and body. All infants will need surgery to correct the defect. This is called an arterial switch. Your infant’s cardiothoracic surgeon will explain this surgery to you.
Who Do I Call With Questions?
Your child’s doctor or nurse or our clinic staff can answer any questions.
Pediatric Cardiology is (608) 263-6420.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 05/18/2012
Copyright © 05/18/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#6861
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