Video - Truncus arteriosus

Persistent truncus arteriosus (PTA) is a rare congenital heart defect in which the embryonic structure that normally divides into the pulmonary artery and aorta fails to form properly, resulting in a single large vessel that supplies blood to both the systemic and pulmonary circulations.

Symptoms of PTA may include cyanosis, rapid breathing, poor feeding, and difficulty gaining weight. If left untreated, PTA can lead to heart failure and other complications. Treatment typically involves surgical repair of the defect, which involves separating the pulmonary artery from the aorta and creating a connection between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery.