Even after surgery, a child may develop an obstructed valve (stenosis), leaky heart valve (regurgitation), an abnormal heart rhythm, arrhythmia or weakened heart muscle. Ongoing heart monitoring by a cardiologist can catch these problems early and prevent serious complications.
Your child will also need additional surgeries to replace the tube and valve (artificial pulmonary artery), which can’t grow with your child’s body.
What is the outlook for children with truncus arteriosus?
Without surgery, truncus arteriosus is a life-threatening condition. With proper, ongoing heart monitoring, most children live full adult lives. A cardiologist should monitor your child's heart health to diagnose potential problems quickly.
Will my child be able to participate in sports with truncus arteriosus?
Each child’s situation is different. Your child’s cardiologist can evaluate your child’s heart health to determine which sports and physical activities are safe.