Is surgery used to treat tricuspid atresia?

Yes, a series of surgeries are used to treat tricuspid atresia. The goal is to overcome the low-oxygen conditions created by the tricuspid valve not forming properly. The goal is to eventually surgically separate the circulation of oxygen-poor blood (which is a bluish color) and oxygen-rich blood (which is bright red). Separating low-oxygen and high-oxygen circulation can improve oxygen delivery to the body as well as relieve the extra burden placed on the heart as it labors to overcome the impaired circulation caused by the malfunctioning tricuspid valve. Initially, surgery may be necessary to provide the right balance of blood flow to the lungs and body as the child may have too little or too much blood going to the lungs. Eventually, the circulation to the lungs and body are separated ending up with a Fontan procedure. Surgery can reroute the circulation, but it does not restore the normal anatomy of the heart.