Skip to main content

Condition

Pediatric Truncus Arteriosus

What You Need to Know

Truncus arteriosus happens when there is an abnormal connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery. It causes oxygen-poor (blue) blood and oxygen-rich blood to mix and to be pumped to the body.

Key Symptoms

The most common symptoms of truncus arteriosus are:

  • Blue color to skin, lips and nails
  • Problems breathing
  • Poor feeding or eating

Diagnosis

Truncus arteriosus is typically diagnosed by:

  • Fetal ultrasound
  • Pulse oximetry
  • Chest X-ray
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)
  • Echocardiogram (echo)
  • Cardiac catheterization

Treatment

Treatment may include:

  • Surgery 
  • Medication
  • Noninvasive positive pressure ventilation

Schedule an Appointment

Our pediatric specialists provide personalized care for your child’s physical, mental and emotional health needs. Meet the providers and schedule an appointment today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is truncus arteriosus in a child?

What causes truncus arteriosus in children?

What are the symptoms of truncus arteriosus in children?

How is truncus arteriosus diagnosed in children?

How is truncus arteriosus treated in children?

What are possible complications of truncus arteriosus in children?

How can I help my child live with truncus arteriosus?

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Meet the Providers Who Treat Truncus Arteriosus

Departments that Treat Truncus Arteriosus

    Provider with cardiac patient

    Cardiac Imaging

    We have expertise in the full spectrum of cardiac imaging, including transesophageal, prenatal, 3-D, intracardiac, and stress echocardiography and cardiac MRI.