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Definition
By Mayo Clinic staffTransposition of the great arteries is a heart defect present at birth (congenital), in which the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed (transposed). The condition changes the way blood circulates through the body, leaving a shortage of oxygen in blood flowing from the heart to the rest of the body. Without an adequate supply of oxygen-rich blood, the body can't function properly.
Transposition of the great arteries is usually detected at birth or within the first few weeks of life.
Corrective surgery within the first weeks of life is the usual treatment. Having a baby with transposition of the great arteries is naturally worrisome to you as a parent. Remember that with proper treatment, most babies with congenital heart defects grow up to lead healthy, productive lives.
Symptoms
