Echocardiographic ventricular function evaluation in pulmonary valve insufficiency after surgical repair of Fallot tetralogy

Background: Tetralogy of Fallot is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. The systolic and diastolic function in both ventricles is altered even after successful corrective surgery for this defect with a transannular patch. Pulmonary regurgitation, a common complication after this treatment, is usually well tolerated in childhood. The aim of this study was to assess the combined diastolic and systolic function of both ventricles using the Doppler-derived myocardial performance index (Tei index) in patients who underwent surgical repair of tetralogy of Fallot using a transannular patch. In this article we discuss the impact of pulmonary regurgitation on right ventricular function and clinical outcome, the role of echocardiographic imaging, and current management strategies for patients with pulmonary regurgitation after this treatment. Methods: Sixty eight patients with tetralogy Fallot were studied in Shahid Rajaie referral Cardiovascular Center during 2003-2005. The studied population, 36 male and 32 female with a mean age of 7.5±4 years and a history of corrective surgery for tetralogy of Fallot using a transannular patch. These patients were randomly selected and assessed by Doppler echocardiography. Results: Fifty-seven patients (84%) had mild to moderate pulmonary regurgitation, whereas 11 patients (16%) had severe pulmonary regurgitation. Right ventricular Tei index was significantly increased in patients with severe pulmonary regurgitation compared those with mild to moderate pulmonary regurgitation (0.54±0.18 vs 0.24±0.11, P