double outlet right ventricle

Full Definition

Double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a complex congenital heart malformation characterized by the origin of both great arteries (aorta and pulmonary artery) from the right ventricle, with the aorta positioned to the right of the pulmonary artery. This condition is always associated with a ventricular septal defect, through which blood from the left ventricle must exit. DORV is classified based on the relationship of the ventricular septal defect to the great arteries (subaortic, subpulmonary, doubly committed, or noncommitted types). Surgical repair strategies vary significantly depending on the specific anatomy and may include arterial switch operations, Rastelli operations, or other complex reconstructions.

Usage

Usage note: Always specify the type based on VSD location (subaortic, subpulmonary, etc.) for surgical planning accuracy.

In Context

• "The patient with double outlet right ventricle and subaortic ventricular septal defect underwent successful arterial switch operation." — Congenital cardiac surgery report
• "Preoperative imaging revealed double outlet right ventricle with subpulmonary ventricular septal defect, requiring Rastelli-type repair." — Surgical planning conference