arterial switch operation
A surgical procedure for transposition of the great arteries where the aorta and pulmonary artery are switched to their anatomically correct positions.
Full Definition
The arterial switch operation (ASO) is the preferred surgical treatment for transposition of the great arteries (TGA), a congenital heart defect where the aorta and pulmonary artery are reversed. The procedure involves disconnecting both great vessels from their original positions and switching them to their anatomically correct locations, with the aorta connected to the left ventricle and the pulmonary artery to the right ventricle. The coronary arteries must also be transferred from the original aortic root to the new aortic root (neoaorta). This complex operation typically results in normal cardiac anatomy and excellent long-term outcomes when performed in infancy.
Usage
Usage note: May be abbreviated as ASO after first use. Always mention coronary artery transfer as a critical component.
In Context
- "The arterial switch operation was performed successfully with coronary artery transfer at 3 weeks of age." — operative summary
- "Long-term follow-up after arterial switch operation showed excellent biventricular function." — cardiology assessment