tetralogy of Fallot
Pronunciation: fah-LOW
Also written as: TOF — Tetralogy of Fallot
The most common cyanotic congenital heart defect, consisting of four anatomic abnormalities affecting heart structure and function.
Full Definition
Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most prevalent cyanotic congenital heart disease, characterized by four key anatomic features: ventricular septal defect, overriding aorta, pulmonary stenosis, and right ventricular hypertrophy. The degree of pulmonary outflow obstruction determines the severity of symptoms and timing of surgical intervention. Complete surgical repair typically involves ventricular septal defect closure and relief of pulmonary stenosis through transannular patch placement or valve preservation techniques. Some patients may require initial palliation with systemic-to-pulmonary shunts (Blalock-Taussig shunt) before definitive repair. Long-term complications can include pulmonary regurgitation, arrhythmias, and the need for pulmonary valve replacement.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Étienne-Louis Arthur Fallot; capitalize as proper noun. Specify repair type and timing.
In Context
- "Complete repair of tetralogy of Fallot was performed with VSD closure and transannular patch augmentation." — Congenital cardiac surgery report
- "The patient with repaired tetralogy of Fallot developed severe pulmonary regurgitation requiring valve replacement at age 25." — Adult congenital heart disease follow-up