The atrial switch is a surgical procedure used to correct transposition of the great arteries (TGA), a congenital heart defect where the positions of the aorta and pulmonary artery are reversed. This results in oxygen-poor blood being circulated to the body and oxygen-rich blood being sent back to the lungs. The atrial switch operation, also known as the Senning or Mustard procedure, redirects the flow of blood within the atria (upper chambers of the heart), allowing oxygen-poor blood to reach the lungs and oxygen-rich blood to flow to the rest of the body. Unlike the arterial switch, this surgery focuses on rerouting the blood inside the heart, rather than moving the arteries themselves. The need for an atrial switch arises from TGA, where normal circulation is compromised, leading to low oxygen levels in the blood and serious health risks for the patient. Before the advent of the arterial switch operation, the atrial switch was the primary treatment for TGA. Although it is now less commonly performed, it remains relevant for patients with complex or repaired TGA who may need additional corrections. Symptoms of TGA include cyanosis (blue-tinged skin), rapid breathing, poor feeding, and failure to thrive in infants. If untreated, the condition can lead to heart failure and death. The atrial switch procedure restores more normal blood flow, significantly improving oxygenation and alleviating symptoms. Long-term follow-up is required, as patients may face complications such as arrhythmias or right ventricular dysfunction later in life.
