A Pioneering Heart Transplant Program

Cardiac syndromes

Pulmonary Atresia

Pulmonary valve atresia (PVA) is a congenital heart defect interrupting the outflow tract of the right ventricle. There are several forms, including PVA with intact ventricular septum and the more severe, tetralogy of Fallot. PVA affects nearly two percent of all infants with congenital heart defects; the cause is unknown. PVA with intact ventricular septum is often characterized by a complete obstruction of the valve, interatrial communication and right ventricle hypertrophy. Profound hypoxia and compromised heart function are among the many symptoms of this condition. Left untreated, outcomes are poor.