arterial switch
Surgical correction of transposition of the great arteries by switching the aorta and pulmonary artery to their correct positions.
Full Definition
The arterial switch operation is the preferred surgical correction 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 and switching them to their anatomically correct positions, with the aorta connected to the left ventricle and the pulmonary artery to the right ventricle. The most technically challenging aspect is the coronary artery transfer, where the coronary arteries must be moved from the old aorta to the new aorta (formerly the pulmonary artery). This operation must typically be performed within the first few weeks to months of life, before the left ventricle loses its ability to pump against systemic pressures.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as ASO in medical records.
In Context
- "The arterial switch was completed with successful coronary reimplantation." — Congenital cardiac surgery report
- "Post-arterial switch echocardiography showed excellent biventricular function." — Post-operative assessment