RVOT
Also written as: RVOT — Right Ventricular Outflow Tract
Right ventricular outflow tract, the pathway from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery through the pulmonary valve.
Full Definition
The right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) is the anatomical pathway that conducts blood from the right ventricle to the pulmonary circulation, consisting of the infundibulum (outflow portion of right ventricle), pulmonary valve, and main pulmonary artery. RVOT obstruction can occur at multiple levels: subvalvular (infundibular stenosis), valvular (pulmonary stenosis), or supravalvular stenosis. This structure is frequently abnormal in congenital heart diseases such as tetralogy of Fallot, requiring surgical intervention including patch augmentation, conduit placement, or valve replacement. RVOT reconstruction is a common component of complex congenital heart surgery, with long-term outcomes dependent on maintaining adequate flow while minimizing regurgitation.
Usage
Usage note: Write as RVOT in all caps, not rvot or Rvot.
In Context
- "RVOT reconstruction was performed using a valved conduit." — Operative report
- "The RVOT gradient decreased from 45 to 12 mmHg following surgery." — Post-operative echo