Tetralogy of fallot prevention


 * Associate Editors-In-Chief: Priyamvada Singh, M.B.B.S. [mailto:psingh@perfuse.org], Keri Shafer, M.D. [mailto:kshafer@bidmc.harvard.edu];  Assistant Editor-In-Chief: Kristin Feeney, B.S. [mailto:kfeeney@perfuse.org]

Overview
Factors that reduce systemic vascular resistance (SVR) may exacerbate shunting which in turn exacerbates cyanosis and should be avoided if at all possible in the patient with Tetralogy of Fallot.

Prevention
No known prevention exists for Tetralogy of Fallot.

Prevention of Cyanosis
The following factors may reduce systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and exacerbate shunting which in turn exacerbate cyanosis and should be avoided if at all possible:
 * Acidosis
 * Bathing in hot water
 * Fever
 * Stress
 * Infection
 * Posture (upright, not squatting)
 * Exercise
 * Beta-adrenergic agonists
 * Dehydration
 * Closure of the patent ductus arteriosus

Prevention of Infective Endocarditis

 * Antibiotic prophylaxis should be administered.