Professional
Technical
IVT
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome
Pronunciation: high-poh-PLAS-tik
A severe congenital heart defect where the left side of the heart is critically underdeveloped.
Full Definition
Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) is a rare but serious congenital heart defect in which the left ventricle, aorta, aortic valve, and mitral valve are severely underdeveloped or absent. This condition is incompatible with life without surgical intervention, typically requiring a series of three staged surgical procedures known as the Norwood sequence. HLHS represents one of the most challenging congenital heart defects to treat and requires immediate medical attention after birth.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as HLHS. Note the correct spelling of 'hypoplastic' - often confused with 'hyperplastic'.
In Context
- "The newborn was diagnosed with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome and required immediate transfer to a specialized cardiac center." — Emergency department report
- "Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome has a reported incidence of 1 in 4,344 live births." — Epidemiological study
Also known as
HLHS
Contrasted with
Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome
Don't confuse with
Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome
Left Heart Hypoplasia