Tricuspid atresia. Surgical treatment, pediatric nursing care

Tricuspid atresia is one of the least common congenital heart defects representing less than 3% of all reported cases. The course and prognosis depends on the underlying anatomy; however, the prognosis is guarded in all cases. Intraoperative mortality is between 5% to 7%. Without surgical treatment, these children die. Of those who have surgery, more than half survive until their second decade. At approximately 15 years of age, the mortality rate increases as a result of congestive heart failure, pulmonary vascular obstructive disease, and dysrhythmias. Surgical repair for children with tricuspid atresia involves palliative surgery in infancy followed by corrective surgery when the child is three to four years of age. The Fontan procedure is the surgical procedure of choice for children undergoing corrective surgery for tricuspid atresia. It involves anastomosing the pulmonary artery to the right atrium to create a connection between the systemic venous and pulmonary circulation. Children undergoing corrective surgery for tricuspid atresia require diversified nursing care. Nurses from the cardiovascular unit, the operating room, and the pediatric intensive care unit work interdependently to facilitate the transition of the child and family through the various stages of the hospitalization. As a result of a collaborative and comprehensive nursing approach, these children and families may have a more positive experience.