Hypoplastic left heart syndrome


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Hypoplastic left heart syndrome


Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital) in which the left side of the heart and aorta are very small or underdeveloped. This defect may result in problems with the left ventricle, leaving the right ventricle responsible for pumping blood to the lungs and body.

Over time, too little blood may be pumped to the body, leading to heart failure. Without a series of major heart operations, this defect usually causes death.

Credits


Author Robin Parks, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology
Last Updated October 25, 2007

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Last updated: October 25, 2007
Author: Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By: Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology
Editors: Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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