Other important aspects of initial treatment include the following: 

Cardiac Catheterization 
A cardiac catheterization procedure can be used to diagnose and treat some heart defects. A cardiac catheterization procedure is usually done to identify the defect(s) and the amount of blood that is mixing.

As part of the cardiac catheterization, a procedure called a balloon atrial septostomy may be performed. A special catheter with a balloon in the tip is used to create an opening in the wall between the left and right atria (atrial septum). This will improve mixing of oxygen-rich (red) and oxygen-poor (blue) blood.

IV Medication 
Before a baby is born, they receive oxygen from the mother through the placenta. Because of this, their lungs aren’t used. Fetuses have a temporary connection between the pulmonary artery and the aorta called the ductus arteriosus. For babies with TGA, a medication called prostaglandin E1 is given to keep the ductus arteriosus from closing. This helps increase the amount of oxygen-rich blood in the body.

Heart Surgery 
Within one to two weeks after being born, a baby with TGA will need heart surgery to fix the defect. The procedure is called an "arterial switch.”

• The aorta is moved from the right ventricle to its normal position over the left ventricle.
• The pulmonary artery is moved from the left ventricle to its normal position over the right ventricle.
• The coronary arteries are moved so they will originate from the aorta and take oxygen-rich (red) blood to the heart muscle.
• Other defects, such as atrial or ventricular septal defects or a patent ductus arteriosus, are commonly closed. 

Outstanding outcomes: If your child needs surgery, you’ll have access to world-class heart surgeons. The Herma Heart Institute has some of the best results for even the most complex types of heart disease.

Care close to home: The Herma Heart Institute has 10 clinic locations. These clinics can be found in Wisconsin and upper Michigan.

Lifelong support: We provide care to our patients in all ages and stages of life — from before birth through adulthood. Your fetal heart doctor can care for your child through their childhood. As they age, they can transition into our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program.

Commitment to innovation: Our team is leading the way in congenital heart disease research. We are working to discover breakthrough treatments and procedures to improve outcomes.

Support beyond the clinic: We know that our heart families need support that extends beyond the clinic. That’s why we invest in programs that help children thrive and get them back to being kids sooner:

• Neurodevelopmental Follow-Up Program
• Educational Achievement Partnership Program

For some families, it can be helpful to come prepared with a plan before your appointment with a cardiologist. Here are things to consider documenting and having ready for your appointment:

• Symptoms your child is experiencing: Sharing when these symptoms appeared and how frequently they occur is helpful to the medical team. Don’t be afraid to share symptoms that seem unrelated — congenital heart disease can affect other parts of the body.
• Medications: This should also include any supplements or vitamins your child takes.
• Related history: This includes family medical history and recent changes in your family’s life.
• Your questions: This will help ensure you don’t forget to ask all your questions. It is okay to ask the same question several times if you are unclear. Our team is here to help you understand the big picture and make sure you walk away with your questions answered.

Many infants who undergo TGA surgical repair will grow and develop normally. However, after TGA repair, your child will need to be monitored by a cardiologist in case new problems develop.

Once your child reaches adulthood, they should seek out a program that specializes in adult congenital heart disease. The Herma Heart Institute’s Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program is the largest in the state.

Consult your child's physician regarding the specific outlook for your child.