Congenital Heart Lesions

Single Ventricle

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Signs and symptoms of deterioration

  • Palpitations
  • Edema
  • Increased cyanosis
  • Decrease level of energy
  • Shortness of breath

If you frequently experience one of these signs and symptoms, call your cardiologist as soon as possible.

Exercise recommendations

You should exercise as well as you can tolerate it. However, contact or competitive sports are not recommended.

Please check with your cardiologist for your specific restrictions.

Endocarditis recommendations

Antibiotics are recommended before particular dental or surgical procedures.

You should always maintain good oral hygiene in order to prevent infection.

Pregnancy and contraception

A pre-conception cardiology counseling is necessary in order to determine your risks to become pregnant.

Risks of transmission

Normal population 1%
1 child affected 2%
2 children affected 15%
3 children affected 50%
Mother with malformation Up to 15%
Father with malformation Up to 12%
Marfan’s Syndrome, bicuspid valves Up to 50%

These numbers are approximate. A fetal echocardiogram is recommended between the 18th and the 20th week of pregnancy to detect possible cardiac malformations in the baby.

The risk of transmission varies according to the family antecedents. In case of doubts, a consultation with a geneticist is recommended in order to precisely calculate the risks and to make specific recommendations.

Prepared by: Marie-Joëlle Boucher et. Scinf., Nathalie Comtois Rn, BSc