Truncus Arteriosus: Pathophysiology, Investigations, and Treatment

Background: The failure of the primitive arterial trunk to divide into the aorta and the pulmonary artery causes persistent truncus arteriosus, an uncommon heart abnormality. As a result, the heart has only one outflow, which is an arterial vessel that supplies the systemic, pulmonary, and coronary circulations. The truncal valve serves both ventricles and overrides the ventricular septal defect at the output. Truncal valve dysplasia is common, resulting in stenosis and/or regurgitation in variable degrees. Three forms of truncus arteriosus can be recognized based on the origin of the branch pulmonary arteries. In about 15% of cases, and in one-third of people with DiGeorge syndrome, persistent truncus arteriosus is linked to an interrupted aortic arch. Infants with a chronic truncus arteriosus exhibit early signs of heart failure and require surgery within the first few weeks of life. Conclusion: Children with congenital heart disease are living longer and longer thanks to developments in surgery and post-operative treatment, as well as new technology advancements