Want more iVillage? Sign up for our
Newsletters
Pulmonary atresia
Pulmonary atresia is a type of congenital heart defect in which the opening between the pulmonary artery and the right ventricle is narrowed or blocked. This can result in an enlarged heart, reduced blood vessel function in the lungs, and problems with the right ventricle.
Pulmonary atresia is usually linked with heart abnormalities such as tetralogy of Fallot.
Treatment for pulmonary atresia includes medicine or a catheter procedure. Or surgery may be used to provide another way for blood to get to the lungs. Depending upon the heart's condition, surgical repair may remove or bypass the blockage.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 12, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | John Pope, MD - Pediatrics Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.
