Will Tetralogy Of Fallot Treated Earlier Cause Complications During Future Pregnancies?

Posted on Tue, 7 Apr 2015

Question: I received a proposal from a Girl who have done Tetrology Fallout surgery in her childhood. They said initially that it was VSD but the surgery report showed as tetrology Fallot. Also she is now healthy and have no medications after the surgery. Also no restriction in physical activities. She is now 32 and the surgery was done in 10th grade.

I m a bit concerned about the future as well as her present state. Will it cause associate problems in the future?..is there greater risk in pregnancy?. If so to consult a cardiologist, what are test that we can do to find out present or any future probelms?

Please help me out, im also attaching the reports of her surgery.

Answered by Dr. Ravindra Setty B.R. (18 hours later)

Brief Answer:
There is a risk during pregnancy and delivery than normal population.

Detailed Answer:
Tetralogy of Fallot is a congenital heart disease. As per the reports good surgery has been done. At present she has no symptoms and that is good. That actually means her heart condition and function is good.
A reviewing cardiologist is the best person to decide about her condition for pregnancy and delivery at that time. Still she can deliver and lead a normal life like normal.
Also to keep in mind for the future child the risk of the child getting tetralogy is 2% over the general population. all these things have to be kept in mind before marriage.
I appreciate your concern and this is my opinion.
thanks. all the best.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ravindra Setty B.R. (18 hours later)

Thank you for your reply Doctor.

I certainly review it with a cardiologist.
Also if you can possibly suggest what all Test can be used to diagnose her heart condition. That will be much helpful (TMT/ECHO/MRI) etc.
If you don't mind what are the common problems that will generally arise in the long run?
Correct me if I am wrong ,I mean many of people with TOF has done 2/3 surgeries In their life.
Perhaps it depends on persons, yet concerned about it.
Your advice much appreciated!!

Answered by Dr. Ravindra Setty B.R. (4 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Dear sir, getting an echo should show the way forward.

Detailed Answer:
The best test is an echo done by an experienced cardiologist to know the exact present condition of the heart. This will determine the future course the heart will take. We have to look at the extra load the heart will take at the time of pregnancy and delivery.
Regarding the 2/3 surgeries, this is when the heart condition is bad and /or any valve is leaking.
Hence, a echo will tell us everything.
Thanks,
All the best.

Note: click here to Consult a cardiac surgeon online. to know the best treatment option for your heart-related issues

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Pradeep Vitta