Arterial switch surgery is an open-heart operation for newborns with transposition of the great arteries, a congenital defect in which the aorta arises from the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery from the left. Its aim is to redirect blood flow so that oxygenated blood reaches the body, and the treating team decides the timing and approach for each baby.
The operation is done under general anaesthesia with a heart-lung machine. The surgeon divides both great arteries, reconnects them to the correct ventricles, moves the coronary arteries to the new aorta and closes any associated opening if needed. Before surgery, a baby may receive medication that keeps a connection open to help the blood mix.
Surgery usually takes several hours, followed by days in intensive care and sometimes weeks in hospital. Colour and feeding generally improve gradually, but the final result is judged through regular cardiac follow-up during the growing years, which may continue for life. No specific outcome can be promised.
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It aims to direct oxygen-rich blood to the body correctly, which may improve oxygen levels, growth and feeding. The outcome depends on each child and on the treating team's assessment.
Newborns diagnosed with transposition of the great arteries after a heart ultrasound. The cardiac surgeon and paediatric cardiologist decide whether surgery is suitable and when to perform it.
The medical team stabilises the baby with monitoring, medication and suitable feeding, and explains the operation and aftercare to the parents. No medication is given without the doctor's supervision.
After general anaesthesia and connection to a heart-lung machine, the chest is opened, the two great arteries are reconnected to the correct ventricles and the coronary arteries are moved to their new position.
The baby stays for days in intensive care under close monitoring, then moves to a cardiac ward until feeding, breathing and heart rhythm are stable. The length of stay varies and is set by the treating team.
Colour and oxygen levels often improve after surgery, but judging the full result takes long-term follow-up. Children are reviewed regularly, because some may need further treatment later.
They include bleeding, infection, heart rhythm disturbances, narrowing at the joins, and problems with the coronary arteries or valves, some of which can be serious. The surgical team explains the expected risks for your child.
Yes, usually a vertical scar down the middle of the chest. It often fades with time in many children, but it generally does not disappear completely.
Yes. Regular visits to a paediatric cardiologist with heart ultrasound and ECG are needed, and follow-up may last for life. The doctor may advise medication or special precautions before dental or surgical procedures.
It depends on how stable the child is, and often means staying several weeks after leaving hospital. The treating cardiac surgeon and paediatrician confirm when the child is fit to travel and how.
