Pulmonary artery sling

Pulmonary artery sling is a rare congenital heart defect in which the left pulmonary artery arises from the right pulmonary artery. This anomaly can cause respiratory distress in infants and children due to the abnormal positioning of the pulmonary artery.

Symptoms

The symptoms of pulmonary artery sling may vary depending on the severity of the condition. Common symptoms include:

• Respiratory distress
• Wheezing
• Stridor
• Cough
• Failure to thrive
• Cyanosis

Causes

The exact cause of pulmonary artery sling is unknown. It is thought to occur during the early stages of fetal development.

Diagnosis

Pulmonary artery sling is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. These may include:

• Echocardiogram
• Computed tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
• Cardiac catheterization

Treatment

Treatment for pulmonary artery sling typically involves surgery to correct the positioning of the pulmonary artery. The type of surgery will depend on the individual patient's condition.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with pulmonary artery sling is generally good with early diagnosis and treatment. However, complications can occur, including pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.

See also

• Congenital heart defect
• Pulmonary artery
• Respiratory distress syndrome

Pulmonary artery sling Resources
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