Information on Structural Problems (e.g. hole in the heart)

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)

The word 'tetra' comes from an old Greek word meaning four. In Tetralogy of Fallot there are four things wrong in the heart. Doctors think that all four problems originated from one single error when the heart was very tiny and just being formed. These four things are Pulmonary stenosis, Ventricular septal defect (VSD), over-riding Aorta and right ventricular hypertrophy. You can read what these are in our leaflet. Your baby will need surgery to fix these problems but this may not be until they are bigger and stronger. They may also need medication, especially if they have 'blue episodes' called Tet spells which your cardiologist will want you to watch out for.

British Heart Foundation Leaflet

Click here to see the British Heart Foundation leaflet on Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) or click here to go to the British Heart Foundation website.

Children's Heart Federation Leaflet

Click here to see the Children's Heart Federation leaflet on Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) or click here to go to the Children's Heart Federation website.