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Transposition of the Great Arteries — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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HardCardiologyTransposition of the Great ArteriesRACP Paediatrics

A neonate born at 39 weeks with a prenatal diagnosis of D-transposition of the great arteries undergoes balloon atrial septostomy on day 1 of life. When is the definitive surgical repair (arterial switch operation) typically performed?

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Correct answer: A — Within the first 2 weeks of life

The arterial switch operation (Jatene procedure) is the definitive repair for D-TGA and is ideally performed within the first 2 weeks of life, before the left ventricle loses its capacity to support systemic pressures (as pulmonary vascular resistance drops). A balloon atrial septostomy (Rashkind procedure) provides interim mixing of blood at the atrial level.

Reference: RCH Melbourne – 2024 – Clinical Practice Guidelines: Transposition of the Great Arteries