Medical Encyclopedia
Truncus arteriosus
Normally the aorta arises from the left ventricle and the pulmonary artery arises from the right ventricle. In truncus arteriosus both vessels are combined into one vessel. A hole between the two ventricles is usually also present. As a result, unoxygenated and oxygenated blood mix completely. This causes too much blood to be sent to the lungs and not enough oxygentated blood to get to the heart and the rest of the body.
Update Date: 4/24/2008
Updated by: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2009, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
