Tetralogy of Fallot: A Rare Heart Condition

Tetralogy of Fallot is a serious heart defect that can affect one in every 2,518 babies born in the United States. This means that each year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates roughly 1,660 babies are born with tetralogy of Fallot - a massive malformation of the heart that prevents the overall functionality of that organ. There are four defects that are involved in a diagnosis of tetralogy of Fallot.

The four defects include:

• The heart’s two lower chambers has a hole
• The pulmonary valve and main pulmonary artery are narrow
• The aortic valve is enlarged and opens from both ventricles
• The lower right chamber’s muscular wall is thicker than usual

It is important to understand what kind of risks are associated with tetralogy of Fallot. The baby may have a higher risk of infection involving the heart, arrhythmia, low oxygen levels in the blood, seizures, growth and development problems, and more. You may also notice that the baby developed a bluish looking skin color.

For a free consultation, call (713) 425-7100 today.

Potential Causes of Tetralogy of Fallot

A number of factors can affect the development of the heart during pregnancy, so the cause of tetralogy of Fallot is often disputed. However, some research suggests that birth defects might be linked to the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), antidepressants, and other medications taken during pregnancy. This may include prescription drugs such as Prozac and Zoloft. Mothers are not always informed fully of the risks these types of medications can pose to their developing child. If you took a medication during or even immediately prior to your pregnancy and your child was diagnosed with tetralogy of Fallot, you may have legal recourse.

Is Treatment Possible?

In order to treat tetralogy of Fallot, open heart surgery is necessary shortly after birth. The doctors will replace or widen the pulmonary valve, making the passage to the pulmonary artery larger. The hole in the wall between the two lower chambers is also repaired and closed. This will help improve the flow of blood to the lungs and throughout the body.

Filing a Claim

We invite you to speak with our firm about your potential options if your child was diagnosed with this heart condition. Filing a claim can help you seek the compensation you need to cover medical expenses associated with the tetralogy of Fallot. Bailey Cowan Heckaman PLLC has extensive experience representing the injured and the wronged, going to bat against even the largest corporations. Let us stand by your side during this difficult time. If you took certain medications while pregnant and your child developed tetralogy of Fallot, call us for a free consultation today.

Discuss your potential claim today. Call (713) 425-7100.