aortopulmonary window
Congenital heart defect characterized by abnormal communication between the ascending aorta and pulmonary artery.
Full Definition
Aortopulmonary window is a rare congenital heart defect involving an abnormal communication between the ascending aorta and main pulmonary artery, proximal to the semilunar valves. This defect results from incomplete development of the spiral septum that normally separates the two great vessels during embryogenesis. The condition leads to left-to-right shunting with volume overload of the left heart and pulmonary hypertension if untreated. Classification is based on the size and location of the defect (types I-IV). Surgical repair involves patch closure of the communication, typically performed in infancy to prevent irreversible pulmonary vascular disease.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as AP window in clinical contexts; distinguish from aortopulmonary collaterals.
In Context
- "The infant presented with congestive heart failure secondary to a large aortopulmonary window." — Pediatric cardiology consultation
- "Surgical repair of the aortopulmonary window was performed via median sternotomy with cardiopulmonary bypass." — Operative report