Right ventricle function evaluation of patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot via four dimensional echocardiography, spirometry and BNP level examination

Objective: We aimed to evaluate right ventricle function of repaired tetralogy of Fallot by 4D echocardiography, spirometry and brain natriüretıc peptide levels. Material and Method: Between February 2018 and January 2019, we evaluated 18 patients of repaired tetralogy of Fallot. 4D echocardiography, pulmonary function test and brain natriüretic peptide levels measurements were performed on patients. We compared 4D echocardiography findings with control group of 11 patients. The mean age of the patient group was 11.36 ± 3.41 years, the control group was 11.39 ± 2.90 years. Right and left ventricular diastolic and systolic functions and right ventricular volume were evaluated in echocardiographic measurements of the patient and control groups. Results: The mean Forced expiratory volume in the first second / Forced vital capacity value of the patients was % 85.06 ± 0.80 and was evaluated as restrictive pulmonary capacity. The mean brain natriüretic peptide level of the patients was 37.53 ± 25.91 ng/L and it is within normal laboratory reference values. Right ventricular end diastolic volume values were higher in the patient group than the control group. In addition, the age-related rate of right ventricle end diastolic volume increase was higher in the patient group. Conclusion: Patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot may develop complications such as pulmonary valve failure and right ventricular dilatation after total correction surgery. 4D echocardiography is a practical method for evaluating right ventricular functions; with similar results compared to cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. It is also used to assess whether patients have pulmoner valve replacement criteria or not. Right ventricular dilatation is an expected finding in patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot. The degree of dilatation and its results may be affected by many factors, especially depending on age.