How is tetralogy of Fallot treated in adults?

Most adults with tetralogy of Fallot underwent surgery when they were children because, if it is not repaired, tetralogy of Fallot can be fatal by age 20.

As adults, patients with tetralogy of Fallot may develop problems with blood leaking backward (regurgitation) into the heart’s right pumping chamber (the right ventricle). This may require replacement of the lung (pulmonary) valve and repair of the valve that lets blood into the right pumping chamber (the tricuspid valve). Some patients may have heart rhythm problems as well. Adults with tetralogy of Fallot, therefore, need to have regular checkups with heart doctors specially trained in managing congenital defects of the heart.