In approximately 20% of patients with CCTGA, the ventricular apex sits in the right chest , a condition called Dextrocardia. Dextrocardia is usually evident by abnormal cardiac examination, atypical electrocardiographic (EKG) and chest x-rays findings. Situs inversus occurs in 5% of patients with CCTGA. In this condition the major visceral organs are mirrored from their normal positions.
Congenitally Corrected transposition of the great vessels (1-TGA; CCTGA)
CCTGA can be associated with abnormalities in the heart's electrical wiring (the conduction system.) In patients with CCTGA, early heart beats (palpitations) and fast heart rhythms (racing or rapid and chaotic heart rhythm) can arise from either the upper (atrial) or lower (ventricular) chambers. Abnormalities in the specialized electrical tissues in the heart (AV Node) are common in CCTGA patients and can result in excessive slowing in the heart rate. Arrhythmias may require additional study of the heart's electrical wiring.
Congenitally Corrected Transposition of the Great Vessels is an uncommon heart abnormality, occuring in less then 1% world's population. In CCTGA, the recieving chambers (atria) are connected to their opposite pumping chambers (ventricles) because the ventricles are switched or inverted from their normal anatomic positions. (As pictured above.)
Pulmonary stenosis occurs in approximately 30-50% of CCTGA patients. There is muscular or valvular narrowing in the left ventricular outflow tract that results in diminished blood flow to the lungs and can result in bluish discoloration of the skins, tongue, lips and cyanosis (nail beds.)
Surgical corrections:
Surgical corrections in CCGTA include,
VSD repair using patches or sutures to close the defect; placement of a tube graft to overcome left ventricle outflow tract obstruction (pulmonary muscle or valvular obstruction), and tricuspid valve repair or replacement for severe tricuspid valvualr leakiness.
Pregnancy;
Patients with CCTGA can successfully undergo pregnancy and delivery, there is a small increased risk of a congential heart disease in the fetus. A fetal echocardiogram is recommended at about 20-24 weeks gestation. ALL patients contemplating pregnancy should undergo a thorough evaluation prior to pregnancy.