Glossary

The destruction of conduction paths caused by cardiac arrhythmia during a cardiac catheter examination

Additional electrical pathways (conduction system) between the atria and ventricles (e.g. Kent bundle); malfunction can lead to tachycardia

Haemic murmurs with no pathological significance

A drug that regulates blood pressure, used to treat cardiac insufficiency

Heart defect without cyanosis e.g. atrial septum defect, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), pulmonary stenosis

Transient state of unconsciousness occurring with extremely low pulse rate

The force against which the cardiac muscle has to shorten; blood flow resistance against which the heart has to pump, e.g. with stenosis

Absence or incomplete development of an organ, e.g. leaflet of the mitral valve

Special pacemaker aggregate that recognises and treats tachycardia

Valve-bearing vascular implant (conduit) taken from another person, as opposed to xenograft

Congenital or surgical connection between two hollow organs or blood vessels e.g. Glenn Anastomosis

Essential parts of the brain, skull and scalp fail to develop

Dilation of a section of wall of a blood vessel e.g. aorta

Paroxysmal pain in the chest, caused by insufficient supply of oxygen to the heart muscle. It can be a symptom of a heart defect.

Depiction of the heart cavities, great vessels, cardiac valves and coronary vessels with an X-ray contrast medium during cardiac catheter examination

Procedure to widen narrowed vessels using a special catheter technique (balloon dilation)

Deviance from normal

Drugs used to treat various types of cardiac arrhythmia

Prevention of coagulation of the blood (with anticoagulant drugs used to prevent clots)

Large trunk artery leading from the left ventricle of the heart

Upper part of the aorta where the vessels branch off to the head and arms

Constriction of the aorta, 3rd section of the aortic arch; transition from the aortic arch to the descending aorta (thoracic and abdominal aorta)

Congenital narrowing of the transition from the aortic arch to the descending aorta

The part of the aorta that is attached to the heart

Constriction of the aortic valve (= usually valvular, 80%) or the aorta above or below (supra- / subvalvular) the aortic valve

Cardiac valve between left ventricle and aorta; a semilunar valve with three cusps, prevents the backflow of blood to the left ventricle during the relaxation phase of the cardiac muscle

Congenital closure of the aortic valve; a membrane blocks the flow of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta

Occurs when the valve leaks or does not close properly; results in a backflow of blood from the aorta to the left ventricle

Aortic stenosis

Congenital cardiac malformation of the connection between the aorta and the pulmonary artery immediately above the valve

A system of assessing the physical condition of a newborn baby at birth (including heart rate)

Failure to develop tissue or an organ

Respiratory arrest

Stroke, sudden impairment of neurological function; cerebral haemorrhage

Irregular rate or mode of muscle contractions in the heart, cardiac arrhythmia

Oxygenated blood; flows from the lungs via the pulmonary veins into the left half of the heart, then via the aorta to the body

Modern and complicated surgical correction operation, TGA. The switched vessels are detached from the heart and reattached in the correct positions, the coronary vessels also have to be transposed.

Lung artery that carries deoxygenated venous blood from the right ventricle to the lungs

Subclavian artery, supplies the arms with oxygenated blood

Surgical opening of an artery e.g. for a cardiac catheter

Blood vessel that transports blood away from the heart

Small electronic device that sends an electrical impulse to the heart and regulates the heart muscle in cases of cardiac arrhythmias; is implanted under the pectoral muscle or under the abdominal skin

Hole in the atrial wall

Oxygen deficiency, e.g. due to a shift or blockage of the air passages; can lead to severe cerebral damage in newborns

Drugs that inhibit the coagulation of blood platelets and reduce the risk of a blood clot

Blood gas analysis (e.g. oxygen) of arterial blood

Cardiac arrest, suspended heartbeat

Absence of a normal body opening

From the atrium, relating to the atrium

Arrhythmia, irregular atrial beat with a rate of over 300 times per minute. Excitation is transmitted only in part to the ventricles. Irregular cardiac activity (that can also be felt in the pulse), can be caused by cardiac valve defect, a coronary disease or hyperthyroidism.

Anomaly of the atrial septum

Dividing wall between left and right atria

Special form of ASD usually in combination with a leaking mitral valve (sometimes also referred to as partial AV canal defect)

Defect in the septum that normally separates the atria

The most common form of ASD, no involvement of valves 

With TGA, the vessels are still incorrectly connected to the chambers. The surgeon creates a bypass system to the atria so that deoxygenated and oxygenated blood can flow into the correct vessels (palliative operation; Mustard operation; Senning operation).

Life-saving surgical enlargement of an interatrial septum defect

Surgical opening of an atrium

Pre-chamber of each half of the heart

Defect of the atrial septum

The act of listening for sounds made by internal organs (in the area of the heart and surrounding organs)

Tissue or organ grafted into a new position in or on the body of the same individual e.g. pulmonal valve as substitute for a defective aortal valve

Reinfusion of an individual’s own blood, or reprocessed blood components, into his or her own body. Patients can have their blood collected prior to prospective surgery involving large amounts of blood.  During surgery this is then pumped back into the patient’s body as required.

Relating to any chromosome other than the sex chromosom

Interruption of the conduction path between the atria and the ventricles
First degree - AV block: delay in conduction
Second degree - partial AV block (one or more, but not all the atrial impulses fail to conduct to the ventricles)
Third degree AV block – complete heart block

Canal between atria and ventricles

Defect in the atrial and/or ventricular septum at the level of the AV valves, generally accompanied by mutation of the mitral and tricuspid valves. The whole AV canal is cyanosed (coloured blue) and can be seen at birth (frequently in children with Down syndrome).

Atrioventricular nodes, part of the electrical conduction system of the heart; lies between the atria and the ventricles

Defect of the interatrial septum, which extends from the atrial to the ventricular areas, AV valves are involved to differing degrees

Semilunar valves between the atria and the ventricles

-    tricuspid valve (3 flaps) right side of the heart
-    mitral (also bicuspid) valve (2 flaps) left side of the heart

Valves between atria and ventricles

Artificial construction made of pericardial or synthetic material, used in the atrial switch (Senning or Mustard operation in TGA) to redirect the blood flow from the caval veins to the left atrium, and from the pulmonary vein to the right ventricle

Atrioseptostomy, Rashkind procedure/manoeuvre

Hollow plastic tubular surgical instrument (catheter) the tip of which has a balloon of differing lengths attached to it. Used mainly to dilate narrow sections of vessels or valves (balloon dilation)

Procedure to dilate narrow sections of vessels or valves during cardiac catheterisation using an inflatable balloon

Operation in which the trunk of the pulmonary artery is bound with Teflon band to keep high blood pressure from the pulmonary vessels and prevent vascular malformation

Drug that affects heart rate, speed of the conductive system of the heart and  contraction strength of the heart muscle

Malformation of the aortic valve, two instead of three valve flaps are present

Prosthetic heart valve made from tissue taken from animal or human cadavers

Prosthesis made from tissue taken from animal or human cadavers (e.g. pig valve)

Pertaining to or affecting both ventricles of the heart

Mass of coagulated blood

(RR) the pressure of blood against the walls of the blood vessels, dependent on the energy of the heart action and vascular resistance. Expressed as e.g. RR = 120 / 80 mm HG (= systolic / diastolic value)

Slow heart rate (resting heart rate under 60 beats per minute in adults)

Part of the cardiac conduction system. In the ventricular septum the bundle of His divides into right and left branches, which in turn divide into smaller branches (Purkinje fibres). They transmit the electrical impulses to the muscle cells of the cardiac chambers

Right or left bundle branch block (RBBB/LBBB), blockage of the right or left branch of the conduction system. Normal ventricular activation is disturbed (recognisable on ECG). Complete RBBB is usually a complication of cardiac surgery. LBBB usually indicates significant cardiac damage

Part of the conductive system of the heart. A bundle of specialised muscle fibres that transmits the electrical impulses from the AV node to the ventricles. Branches at the septum to become the left and right bundle branches

Build-up of calcium, eg in vessels

Deviation from normal rhythm or heart rate distinction between tachycardic CA (rapid CA) and bradycardic CA (slow CA)

Diagnostic procedure in which a thin plastic tube (catheter) is inserted into an arm or leg vessel (usually in the area of the groin; left heart catheter in an artery, right heart catheter in a vein). Used to measure pressure in the cardiac chambers, as contrast medium imaging of the coronary vessels and cardiac chambers and for measuring oxygen content

Thickening of the cardiac muscle

The volume of blood being pumped by the heart per minute Normal: 5 - 6 liter per minute in adults

- off-pump surgery: procedure carried out on a beating heart, e.g. closure of a ductus arteriosus or placement of an aortopulmonary shunt
- open-heart surgery: cardiac surgery using a heart-lung machine

Insufficiency or stenosis of a cardiac valve; can slowly lead to cardiac insufficiency and myocardial hypertrophy

Substitute for a heart valve  
1. biological heart valves (porcine valves, bovine/patient pericard)
2. mechanical valves (from metal, plastic or carbon fibres)
3. human valves (from the deceased (homograft))

One-way valve at the entrance to and exit from the right and left heart
1. tricuspid valve (between the right atrium and the right ventricle)
2. pulmonary valve (between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery)
3. mitral valve (between the left atrium and the left ventricle)
4. aortic valve (between the left ventricle and the aorta)

Collapse of the circulatory system due to inadequate cardiac function, e.g. following a heart attack

Abnormal enlargement of the heart

(Usually) chronic disease of the heart muscle without cardiac circulatory disorders; the heart muscle loses the ability to pump blood effectively. There are different types:
1. hypertrophic (obstructive) C., with enlargement of the muscle mass of the heart
2. dilated C., the heart cavity is enlarged
3. restrictive C., reduction in the size of the heart cavity due to deposits on the myocardium

Artificially induced cardiac arrest during open-heart surgery brought about with the infusion of a cold special compound

Relating to the heart and blood vessels

See defibrillation

Myocarditis, inflammation of the heart

Great artery supplying the head and neck

Opacity/clouding of the lens of the eye

Thin plastic tube for insertion into cavities or vessels, e.g. cardiac catheter examination

E.g. insertion of a cardiac catheter

See vena cava

Cardiac catheter that can be inserted at various positions along the vena cava. Serves the measurement of pressure ratios and the administration of certain drugs (e.g. antibiotics, drip-feed)

The superior caval vein transports deoxygenated blood from the upper body (head, arms, thoracic aorgans), the inferior caval vein from the lower body (legs, visceral organs) to the right atrium.

Surgical connection created between the upper caval vein and the pulmonary artery to improve pulmonary circulation in congenital heart defect

A needle or short catheter is inserted via a vein (usually in the neck) and pushed through a great vessel toward the heart. This is done e.g. prior to surgery, to allow any necessary blood samples to be taken afterwards.

Congenital heart defect

Removal of tissue from the part of the uterus from which the placenta develops

Deviation or mutation of chromosome

Means by which hereditary information is carried

Effusion of chyle (lymph) in the pleural cavity caused by traumatic injury to the thoracic duct

The left ventricle pumps oxygenated blood with high pressure via the aorta into the circulatory system

Thickening and widening of the end part of the finger as a possible result of persistent cyanosis (see also hippocratic nails)

Constriction, usually as coarctatio aortae in connection with aortic isthmus stenosis

Metal spiral used to create an angiolysis, on which a blood clot can form

Obstruction of a blood vessel or organ (embolisation) with the aid of a metal spiral and the cardiac catheter method (e.g. ductus arteriosus Botalli)

Small subsidiary blood vessels that serve the same area as the main vessels; they maintain the blood supply if the main vessels are interrupted (collateral circulation = bypass circulation)

Doppler examination with colour-coding

Line along which the cusps or leaflets of the cardiac valves join when the valve is closed

Surgical separation of cardiac valve commissure in congenital or acquired accretion

A hole in the junction of the upper and lower chambers of the heart and (varying) abnormality of the valves between the atria and ventricles

Heart defect comprising a number of different cardiac and/or vascular anomalies 

Non-invasive imaging method (radiological layer imaging), particularly to show the size and structure of the inner organs and skeleton

Controls the rhythmical movement of the heart muscle. The sinus node is referred to as the pacemaker of the heart; it is here that the impulse normally arises. The stimulus reaches the AV node via the atrial muscles, then follows the bundle of His, runs in the right bundle branch to the cardiac apex and is distributed along the Purkinje fibres to the ventricular muscle causing it to contract

Extracardiac artificial vascular implant (stent) that connects a cardiac chamber to a blood vessel. These are non-growing implants. They are available with and without prosthetic valves. 

Flowing together

Link, e.g. between atria and ventricle (= atrio-ventricular/AV) or between ventricle and artery (= ventriculoarterial/V-A)

Relating to the region of the outflow path from the cardiac chambers

A group of heart defects involving the left and right outflow tracts as well as the great arteries, e.g. interrupted aortic arch, truncus arteriosus communis, tetrology of Fallot, DORV, pulmonary atresia with VSD

The ability of the cardiac muscle to contract

Tightening of a muscle, e.g. cardiac muscle

Blood vessels that encircle the heart muscle and supply it via capillaries with blood and nutrients

Blood vessels that supply blood to the heart, left and right CA (with branches)

Part of the great cardiac vein on the atrial-ventricular border on the posterior cardiac surface into which most of the cardiac veins flow and that empties into the right atrium

Operation aimed at achieving a state comparable to that of a healthy heart (as opposed to palliative surgery)

There are effectively three atria; the left atrium is usually subdivided by an incomplete septum into an upper (where the pulmonary veins enter) and lower (with the mitral valve) part

Permanent treatment with the anticoagulant drug coumarin (Marcumar® / Falithrom®). Can cause thrombosis formation, e.g. on an artificial cardiac valve. Monitoring with certain Quick values or INR values.

Tomografía computarizada 

Monitoring of the foetal heart rate and uterine contractions

See cava catheter

Bluish colouring of the skin owing to oxygen deficiency, usually as a result of a congenital heart defect. Some of the deoxygenated blood flowing back to the heart from the body does not flow into the lung to absorb oxygen but flows instead through a hole in the septum, directly from the right to the left side of the heart and back into the systemic circulation

E.g. tetralogy of Fallot, tricuspid atresia, TGA, pulmonary atresia. Cyanosis is caused, in particular, by stenoses with subsequent reduction of pulmonary blood supply and mixing of deoxygenated and oxygenated blood

Cytomegaly is an infection caused by the human herpes virus (HHV-5). Following infection, the virus is latent in the human organism for an entire lifetime. In 99% of all cases the initial infection with cytomegalovirus shows few or no symptoms and often goes unnoticed by the person that has been infected.

The removal of a circlular surgical band from the pulmonary artery (banding)

Failure to counteract inadequate function or performance

Process to restore an extremely rapid heartbeat (tachycardia) to normal e.g. in the context of heart-lung-reanimation

German Society for Ultrasound in Medicine

Genetic mutation: loss or absence of one or more DNA modules

Congenital location of the heart on the right side of the thorax

Relaxation phase of the heart. The heart muscle slackens and the ventricles fill with blood. The blood is sucked from the atria, via the pulmonary veins into the ventricles. At the end of the diastole the atria actively pump the blood into the ventricles

The lower blood pressure value, e.g. 120/80 mm HG

Originally a naturally occurring compound (digitalis glycoside digoxin and digitoxin) extracted from the foxglove that increases cardiac activity and influences cardiac rhythm

Cardiac glycoside (heart medication)

Disease of the heart muscle with abnormal enlargement of the left or both sides of the heart and inadequate heart pumping function

1.    expansion of the cardiac chambers or the aorta
2.    widening of constrictions in blood vessels and valves (balloon dilation)

Medicines that help reduce oedema and cardiac stress by removing water from the body

Singular ventricle; distinction between DILV or DIRV, depending on which (left/right) ventricle is affected

An imaging technique that is used to visualise the flow of blood in the heart and blood vessels

Origin of the two main arteries from the right-side

Also Trisomy 21; often accompanied by a congenital heart defect (see article on page 20)

Use of a tube to withdraw excess fluid and discharge (e.g. lymph) from wounds, sores or cavities e.g. thorax drainage, to create sufficient space into which the lung can expand after an operation

Natural connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery in the foetus that normally closes within hours, or a few days, after birth

Abnormal shape of the cranium

A pathological mutation of body structures

Abnormal development

Laboured or difficult breathing

Abnormal formation of the tricuspid valve with downward displacement of the root of the valve flap (or leaflet) into the right ventricle

See electrocardiography

Electrocardiogram recorded while the patient is inactive

Ultrasonic examination of the heart

Electroencephalography, test using electrodes to measure and record the electrical activity of the brain

Late appearance of cyanosis in heart defects that were not originally cyanotic, e.g atrial or ventricular septum defect with severe pulmonary hypertension

The fraction of blood volume that is expelled from a cardiac chamber during systole. This is normally above 65%

Electrical changes in the beating heart are received via electrodes attached to the thorax and recorded in what is known as an electrocardiogram

Contact pads applied to the skin to conduct the electric currents present in the body (e.g. in ECG)

A test to measure electrical signals in the heart. Electrodes are inserted into the heart by means of a special cardiac catheter; allows the electrical activity of the heart muscle to be determined and provides evidence for analysing cardiac arrhythmias and establishing the effectivity of an AICD system

Sudden obstruction of a blood vessel by a blood clot transported from one vessel and forced into a smaller one

An organism in its early stage of development (unborn foetus)

Special mounds of connective tissue that develop during the embryonic period; these later grow together to form the cardiac valves and the adjacent sections of atrial and ventricular septum

Developmental disorders of the endocardial cushion. Term summarising a spectrum of cardiac defects ranging from minor atrial septum defects up to complete AV canal defects

Inflammation of the endocardium. Usually caused by bacteria from the blood streamlodging in areas of unnatural blood turbulence, can. destroy damaged cardiac valves

It is recommended that patients with certain congenital or acquired heart defects be given a prophylactic course of antibiotics prior to surgery (e.g. dental treatment, tonsillectomy, abscess incision).

Innermost layer of the heart wall, tissue lining the interior of the heart

Thin layer of cells that lines cardiac cavities and blood vessels

Malformation of the upper eyelid

The layer of pericardium in contact with the heart

See Exercise ECG

Historical term relating to the application of various forms of intervention to improve hereditary traits

Electrocardiogram recorded during specific multistage load tests while cycling or running on a treadmill

Outside the heart

Standard procedure in modern cardiac surgery: a cardiopulmonary bypass pump (heart-lung machine) that temporarily takes over the function of the heart and lungs during surgery

A premature heartbeat that is independent of the normal rhythm
- supraventricular: impulse arising above the cardiac chambers, in the atrial area
- ventricular: impulse arising in the cardiac chambers

Congenital heart defect with four anatomical deviations

Thigh artery, used for inserting a left heart catheter (qv cardiac catheter examination)

Ultrasound examination during pregnancy to diagnose for example, suspected heart defect

Fluorescence in-situ hybridisation

Relating to the unborn child

Unborn child from approximately the 9th week of pregnancy (according to the development of the organs)

Operation to separate deoxygenated from oxygenated blood in heart defects where just just one main chamber is present. A connection is created from the right atrium or main veins directly to the pulmonary artery 

Opening in the atrial septum that is present before birth, and usually closes after birth

Accidental cardiac murmur

A loop diuretic that is used in the treatment of congestive heart failure and oedema. Trade name: Lasix

The tube is surgically placed into the stomach

Source or origin

Length of pregnancy, measured in weeks

Palliative procedure for heart defects with reduced pulmonary circulation. The superior caval vein is surgically connected to the pulmonary artery

Thinning of the blood. Carried out prior to an operation so that fewer erythrocytes are lost in the event of loss of blood, or to reduce the risk of thrombosis

Effect on cardiovascular functions

Device commonly used in open-heart surgery to temporarily take over the functions of the heart and lungs. Lowering body temperature to 18 - 30° Celsius (hypothermia) reduces, in particular, cardiac and cerebral oxygen requirements.

Gross necrosis of the myocardium due to reduced blood supply and subsequent lack of oxygen following occlusion of the coronary vessels by thrombosis.

Disturbance of the heartbeat caused by a disorder in the conduction system resulting in a delay or absence of contraction of the cardiac chambers; AV block, bundle branch block

Myocardial insufficiency; the heart becomes unable to pump sufficient blood - and therefore oxygen and nutrients - to the organs

Occurs when the blood flows over an irregular surface or constriction exceeds a critical velocity, e.g. valvular stenosis or the sound of backflow through leaking cardiac valves. Diagnosis with ascultation.

Number of heartbeats per minute

Sounds coming from the heart, caused by movements of the cardiac valves and muscular contractions

The diseased heart is removed and replaced by the heart of a deceased donor

A series of bougies of varying sizes, used in cardiac surgery to calibrate the diameters of valves

Anticoagulant substance

Valve-bearing vascular prothesis (conduit) made of synthetic material (Dacron. Goretex), which contains a cardiac valve made of porcine aorta, or bovine and porcine pericardium

Increase of blood pressure above certain values

Ablation

Hilum displacement is caused by vascular mutations, e.g. with left-to-right shunt

Condition probably first described by Hippocrates. Features increased convexity of the finger- and toenails due to persistent cyanosis (see also clubbing) the fingernails are curved like the glass of a pocket watch

Heart-lung transplantation

Heart murmur that can be heard throughout systole

Cadaveric valve (pulmonary or aortic). Usually implanted between a ventricle and the pulmonary artery.

Heart transplantation

Accumulation of fluid in foetal body cavities

Excess of cells in the blood. With long-term cyanosis there is an excess of red blood cells (erythrocytes)

A state of increased rate of metabolic activity

Commonly referred to as high blood pressure; a medical condition in which the blood pressure is chronically raised

Disease of the heart muscles resulting from dysfunctional contraction of cardiomyocytes

Immaturity of the structures on the left side of the heart

Below-normal temperature; artificially induced hypothermia during heart surgery.

Immaturity/congenital absence of the thymus gland

Low blood pressure or abnormally low tension in the muscle

Deficient arterial oxygenation

Lack of oxygen. Often in connection with dyspnea, anxiety, disorientation, tachycardia and increased blood pressure

See AICD

Suppression of the immune response with drugs, e.g. following transplantation to prevent organ rejection

Insertion of material or part of an organ made of natural or synthetic material into the body

A cut into body tissue

Tissue necrosis, e.g. in the heart or brain, caused by blocked circulation (arterial obturation: thrombus, emboli)

Informed and self-determined assent to further diagnosis

Narrowing of the pulmonary artery between the right ventricle and the pulmonary valve caused by an increase of muscle tissue

Kind of muscular tunnel, the outflow section of the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery

Introduced by the WHO in 1983 to redress the lack of comparability of Quick values. Used in the control of anticoagulants (Coumarin). Calculated using a formula.

INR value 1 = no coagulation
INR value 2 = coagulation 2-fold prolonged
INR value 3 = coagulation 3-fold prolonged

Inadequate performance or functioning

There is a gap of varying size (different possible types) in the upper part of the aorta, which has no further connection to another vessel or organ. Emergency situation for the newborn child; blood supply to the lower half of the body is via the open ductus arteriosus

Procedure, e.g. using cardiac catheter, interventional cardiac catheterisation

Procedure carried out using a cardiac catheter, e.g. balloon dilation, placement of stents

Innermost coat of an organ

Inside the heart

Insertion of a tube through the mouth and into the trachea for the purpose of respiration, e.g. following the initialisation of anaethesia during an operation

Within the uterus

Diagnostic test that involves entering the body (eg catheter)

Treatment that involves entering the body (eg catheter)

Congenital fissure of the iris

Insufficient blood supply to tissue or organ, local lack of blood supply

Narrowing of the aorta where the aortic arch enters the descending aorta

The tube is surgically placed into the intestine

Small wound at the inner wall of the heart caused when a jet of turbulent blood strikes the endocardium as it crosses from, e.g. the left to the right ventricle

Certain numbers and shapes of chromosomes that are present in the cell nucleus of chromosomes

Potentially fatal inflammable disease; primary cardiac problem is the formation of local dilations (aneurysms) in the coronary vessels

Unusual or abnormal growth of scar tissue

Accessory, i.e. additional pathway in the cardiac conductive system. Is found between an atrium and a ventricle, often causes premature activation (preexcitation, WPW sydrome)

A tight curl, twist or bend, e.g. of the pulmonary artery, the aortic arch, the homograft

Flow without turbulence, e.g. laminar flow pattern through aortic valve (during ultrasound examination); opposite of turbulent flow (turbulance)

Surgical procedure named after a French heart surgeon, used during the arterial switch

E.g. in ventricular septal defects. A hole in the cardiac septum allows oxygenated blood to flow from the left to the right ventricle and from there to the lungs

Increase of the size of the walls of the left ventricle usually caused by the pressure of hypertension; can lead to cardiac insufficiency.

See cardiac catherterisation

Operative constriction or compression of vessels

Left ventricular outflow tract; the path taken by the blood from the left ventricle to the aorta

Dissolution of a blood clot (fibrin) using specific anticoagulant proteins

Metal guide for a flexible catheter, which is removed after insertion of the catheter

Major aortopulmonary collateral artery; for improving pulmonary circulation

1.    electrophysiological examination using a catheter and a special electrode, the foundation for surgical treatment of tachyardia
2.     nonsurgical electrocardiographic technique to establish the size of a heart attack. Image of the action potential of a heart attack mapped at numerous points on the surface of the body

Impaired circulation in the capillaries

An abnormally small head

Bicuspid valve situated between the left atrium and the left ventricle

The mitral valve is unable to close. Some of the blood is regurgitated from the left ventricle into the left atrium; the left ventricle therefore has to increase pumping capacity

Congenital weakness of the connective tissue. The mitral valve balloons into the left atrium, can cause inadequate valve closure

Abnormal narrowing of the mitral valve. Can cause distension of the left atrium and lead to the retention of blood in the lungs

Version, type of operation (e.g. modified Fontan operation)

Resulting from a single cause (determined by a single gene)

Death rate

See nuclear spin tomography

Kawasaki disease.

More than one cause

Reduced muscle tone (see hypotonia)

Functional correction (palliative operation); atrial switch to transpose the great arteries (TGA). Was common up to about 1990 instead of the arterial switch (see also Senning operation)

See heart attack

(Usually) viral inflammation of the myocardium

Cardiac muscle, the muscle wall of the heart

The tube is placed in the nose and passes through the stomach

Paediatrician with supplementary qualification to treat newborn infants

The human central nervous system comprises the brain and the spinal cord. It develops from the foetal neural tube, which is formed between the 22nd and 28th day of pregnancy. Incomplete closure of the neural tube can result in a number of different malformations of the central nervous system, for example, anencephaly or spina bifida aperta.

Special gas that reduces pulmonary vascular resistance when small amounts are added to breathing air (e.g. in pulmonary hypertension)

A method of examination that does not directly penetrate the body, e.g. ECG, ultrasound; CT; opposite is invasive (e.g. cardiac catheter)

A series of three operations used to treat hypoplastic left heart syndrome. The pulmonary and systemic circulations are separated using the right ventricle as the only pumping chamber. First operation: creation of a common arterial connection with the right ventricle to stimulate pulmonary and systemic circulation. Second operation: partial separation of the circulations by creating a superior cavopulmonary anastomosis (Glenn astomosis). Third operation: completion of separation by connecting the inferior cava vein to the pulmonary artery (modified Faontan operation)

Diagnostic procedure using magnetic fields without X-rays. Produces images of organs and structures of the body

Categorisation of cardiac insufficiency along guidelines given out by the New York Heart Association. There are four stages of severity (I – IV) of cardiac insufficiency. Can only be applied to babies and infants in a modified form.
Stage I: disease is present without symptoms
Stage II: dyspnea from exceptional exertion
Stage III: dyspnea from light everyday exertion
Stage IV: dyspnea from all types of exertion, including during rest

Constriction or blockage of a body passage

Catheter-delivered foldable double-umbrella-type device that is unfolded into an open ductus Botalli to close it

Closure

Increase of interstitial fluid in any organ, making that part of the body swell

As opposed to closed heart surgery the surgeon can actually see the heart while operating; blood circulation through the heart is interrupted

Orifice, entrance, opening

Atrial septum defect (ASD I, ASD II)

Opening in the atrial septum of the foetal heart, which usually closes spontaneously after birth

Part of the heart-lung machine that takes over the respiratory function of the lung (oxygen saturation)

Proportion of oxygen bound to haemoglobin in the blood, expressed as a percentage of the maximal binding capacity. Can be measured using a pulse oximator

Also pacemaker

Surgery that only treats the symptoms and not the cause of a disease

Beating of the heart experienced as unpleasant

Conical muscular projection attached to the inner ventricular wall. Its tendinous cords are attached to the AV valves and ensure proper valve closure during systole

Supraventricular tachycardia occurring in attacks of rapid onset and cessation

Hole in the lower part of the atrial septum close to the ventricular valves. Additional abnormal openings in the anteriomedial mitral valve leaflet

Usually made of plastic or pericardial tissue, e.g. for closing atrial or ventricular septal defects

Is present when the ductus does not close after birth. It must be closed either with medication, or surgical ligation, or an occluder.

Also known as persistent ductus arteriosus, vessel between aorta and pulmonary artery

A type of gastrostomy feeding tube

Balloon dilation, e.g for aortic or pulmonary stenosis

The passage of fluid over or through the body or individual organs (e.g. lungs)

Infusion pump for delivering drugs or nutrients to a patient via an infusion (drip) after surgery

Collection of fluid in the pericardium (see also pericardial tamponade)

Life-threatening collection of fluid in the pericardium caused, e.g by inflammation or damage resulting from an infarct. The heart is compressed, the cardiac chambers cannot fill properly and less blood can be pumped through the body.

Collection of blood in the pericardium following endocardial ruptur.  Result: increased pressure, interferes with cardiac activity

Inflammation of the pericradium

Cardiac sac; skin that encloses the heart

Relating to the period around birth (between 28th week of gestation to 7th day of life)

Bluish discolouration of the skin or mucous membrane (cyanosis) caused by oxygen extraction in the periphery (away from the heart), e.g. in cardiac insufficiency with reduced cardiac output; also associated with cold temperatures 

Vessel between aorta and pulmonary artery

Patent (open) foramen oval in the atrial septum

Graphic representation of heart sounds or murmurs; recording of the cardiac tones and ancillary tones with a microphone and heart sound amplifier (usually in connection with an ECG) 

Science of normal functions of the living organism, especially the physical functions of the organism

An organ, rooted to the lining of the womb, which links the baby's blood supply to the mother’s

Double membrane, costal pleura. Membrane, pulmonary pleura that lines the walls of the thoracic cavity. Membrane that invests the lungs

Accumulation of fluid between the costal and pulmonary pleurae

Collection of air or gas in the pleural space, part or all of the lung collapses

Form of glycogen storage disease. Heart disease: cardiomyopathy

After birth

Accumulation of fluid in the pericardium following surgery with opening of the pericardium. The patient usually has fever and feels exhausted 

Condition of late pregnancy whereby the pregnant woman develops high blood pressure and releases too much protein into the urine

Genetic examination at the eight-cell stage of a cell taken from an embryo that has been generated in vitro. When no genetic abnormality is present, the embryo is implanted into the uterus

Premature and atypical electrical activation of the ventricle by additional conductive pathways between the atria and main chamber

Premature activation of parts of the cardiac muscle by accessory conductive pathways, sometimes accompanied by paroxysmal tachycardia (WPW syndrome, LGL syndrome)

Load-bearing component of the heart. Preload is the pressure stretching the ventricle of the heart. It can be less (e.g. with heavy loss of blood) or more, because the heart has to pump larger amounts of blood owing to a septal defect or a shunt. In cases of cardiac insufficiency a reduction of the preload can cause cardiac pressure to go down.

Medication given prior to an anaesthetic or a major procedure (cardiac catheter), which makes the patient sleepy and indifferent (sedation)

Diagnostic examination of the fetal heart using ultrasound waves, for early diagnosis of cardiac abnormalities

Examination before birth

The difference in blood pressure on each side of a stenosis (trans-stenotic) or valve (transvalvular)

Protrusion of tissue or organs

Electrocardiogram made over a 24-hour period and then evaluated. Method for diagnosing and monitoring cardiac arrhythmias

Biochemical substances that behave like hormones

Replacement for a missing or no longer functional organ or part of the body

Protein/medicament used to neutralise the anticoagulant effects of heparin

Drooping upper eyelid

Pulmonary artery, lung artery

Relating to the lungs

Artery to the lungs

Cyanotic cardiac defect: a condition in which the connection between the ventricle and the pulmonary artery is missing. An extreme form of tetralogy of Fallot is present if there is a septal defect that is ‘overridden’ by the aorta

The right ventricle pumps blood through the pulmonary valve and via the pulmonary artery at low pressure into the lungs where it absorbs oxygen. It returns via the pulmonary veins to the left heart.

Blockage of the pulmonary artery (or one of its branches) by blood clots

Hardly ever primary i.e. congenital, usually secondary i.e. resulting from a congenital cardiac defect, can develop in cardiac defects with shunts, e.g. a large hole in the VSD. Increased pressure in the left ventricle causes blood to be pumped from it into the right ventricle, which must also increase pumping capacity. The pulmonary vessels react by contracting the vascular smooth muscle, thereby increasing blood flow resistance. If the condition persists over a longer period of time the muscles become thicker, are transformed into connective tissue and the vascular walls become rigid (fixed pulmonal hypertension, Eisenmenger reaction)

E.g. occurs with major septal defects; the high pressure present in the left ventricle affects the right ventricle (pressure equalisation) and then the lung (pulmonary hypertension, Eisenmenger syndrome)

The collection of fluid in the lungs, e.g. due to cardiac insufficiency

Blood flow to the lungs; there are heart defects with over-, under-, and normal perfusion

Consists of three semilunar cusps, found at the transition from the right ventricle to the pulmonary artery, prevents blood returning to the ventricle

Defective closure of the pulmonary valve; some of the blood being pumped to the lungs flows back into the right ventricle

Pulmonary stenosis

Retention of blood from the left side of the heart in the lung. Caused by cardiac insufficiency; can result in pulmonary oedema in extreme cases

The resistance of the pulmonary vessels against which the right ventricle has to pump blood into the pulmonary circulation

Four veins through which oxygenated blood is transported from the lungs to the left artium

Generally corresponds to the heartrate, can be measured at the wrist (arteria radialis), neck (arteria carotis) or the foot (arteria dorsalis pedis). Exception: e.g. atrial fibrillation - not all heartbeats can be felt with the finger

A device to measure oxygen saturation of the blood via the skin (non-invasive). Usually a light electrode on the patient’s finger

The act of piercing with a hypodermic needle to take blood or inject substances. Also used to insert a cardiac catheter

Last branches of the conductive system in the ventricles. The electrical impulse is transmitted from here to the fibres of the cardiac muscle 

Test of coagulation activity to establish the coagulation value of the blood; used to monitor therapy with coumarin (see also INR value)

(e.g. with transposition of the great vessels) to improve mixing of blood, the oval foramen between the atria is artificially distended using a balloon catheter

Insertion of a valved conduit between the outlet of the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery. Closure of the septal defect with a patch and diversion of blood from the left ventricle to the aorta (e.g. in certain types of transposition of the great vessels with ventricular septal defect or pulmonary atresia with ventricular septal defect)

Revival using cardiac massage and ventilation

Re-occurrence of an illness

Further surgery following one or more previous operations

Exsection; surgical reduction or removal

A remainder, following removal of other substances e.g. after an operation

Breathing apparatus, machine used to generate artificial respiration in patients unable to breathe for themselves, or that have to be ventilated during an operation

Recurrent constriction of a valve or vessel following previous repair

Pressure difference remaining after correction; measured in mm HG

Distinct form of cardiomyopathy with excessive rigidity of the ventricular walls and endocardial fibrosis

Delayed development

E.g. in heart defects. Narrowing of the pulmonary artery causes the right ventricle to press some of the deoxygenated blood through the septal wall defect into the left ventricle and therefore into the systemic circulation. Cyanosis occurs due to the mixing of oxygenated with deoxygenated blood.  Can also be caused by an atrial septal defect.

See cardiac catheterisation

Surgical procedure with severe aortic valve disease: the aortic valve is replaced by the patient’s own pulmonal valve (autograft). A homograft or an artificial valve replaces the pulmonal valve

Abbreviation of Riva Rocci. Method of measuring blood pressure using a cuff and auscultation and used as a synonym for blood pressure (e.g. RR = 110/80 mm Hg)

Congenital abnormality with developmental disorders, especially of the eye, ear and heart, caused by maternal rubella during pregnancy

Right ventricular outflow tract

Right ventricular outflow tract obstruction

Extension of the connection between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery using a synthetic patch

Alarming form of extra heart beats (extrasystoles) occurring in series (4 and more)

An instrument that has been developed to measure individual quality of life. The use of SEIQoL-DW overcomes the problem of predetermined questions, which assume that each person’s quality of life is affected by the same determinants and that different aspects of life are equally important for everyone. SEIQoL-DW assesses determinants that contribute to individuals' quality of life.

1.    Aortic valve,
2.     Pulmonary valve, each comprising three half-moon-shaped cusps

Functional correction (palliative operation); atrial switch in transposition of the great arteries (TGA); common up to about 1990 instead of the arterial switch operation; see also Mustard operation

Definite corrective surgery for compound congenital cardiac defects to separate the pulmonary and systemic circulations

Creation of a septum, e.g. between the atria when the septum is missing

Removal of a septum, e.g. the atrial septum

Partitioning wall e.g. between the atria and the ventricles

A multi-purpose, short-form health survey with 36 questions. It yields an 8-scale profile of functional health and well-being scores and provides a psychometrically-based physical and mental health summary. It is a generic measure rather than one that targets a specific age, disease, or treatment group. SF-36 has proven useful in surveys of general and specific populations, comparing the relative burden of diseases, and in differentiating the health benefits from a wide range of different treatments. SF-36 is a measure of health status rather than of quality of life or health-related quality of life.

Varying combination of the following left heart defects:
aortic isthmus stenosis, mitral stenosis (parachute-shaped valve) and (sub-) aortic stenosis

Bypass between areas that are not normally connected

Amount of blood that flows through a shunt

Slow cardiac arrhythmia due to malfunction of the sinus nodes

Heart defect whereby only one ventricle functions normally

Part of the conductive system; found in the right atrial septum; stimulates the heartbeat with electrical impulses

Sick sinus syndrome

Normal cardiac rhythm

Somewhat dilated section immediately after the aortic valve that forms the root of the aorta. Origin of the coronary vessels

A sac (aneurysm) that forms at a weak point in the connective tissue of the aortic wall, can rupture. Possible results: constriction of the coronary arteries, aortic valve insufficiency

Type of ASD that lies high in the atrial septum, frequently with anomalous drainage of the right superior pulmonary vein into the right (not left) atrium

Mirror-image reversal of organs

Affecting or relating to the body

Ultrasonic examination

Diagnostic procedure for establishing, for example, the presence of  heart defects. Images of the inner organs can be created with the help of ultrasound (non-invasive)

Anomaly of the spinal cord

Measurement of physical exertion (ergometry) while simulataneously determining breath-time-volume and oxygen uptake

Stricture or abnormal narrowing

Narrowed

Wire mesh-like vascular support, e.g. to maintain an opening following balloon dilation

Surgical procedure to open the thorax with a vertical incision

Breastbone

Instrument with which to listen to heart sounds

Stimulation rate e.g. by a pacemaker

Condition in which the eyes are not properly aligned with each other—squinting or ‘cross-eyed’

Bacterial germs that cause, for example, endocarditis

The volume of blood expelled by the heart with each contraction. Used to calculate cardiac output (CO) = heartbeat per minute x stroke volume

The heart is a muscular organ consisting of two halves that are separated from one another by the cardiac septum. Each half is subdivided into a weaker atrium and a stronger ventricle. The heart is embedded in a sac made of conjunctive tissue and known as the pericardium. The heart muscle is referred to as the myocardium and is lined towards the cardiac cavity by a thin layer of tissue (endocardium). The right atrium receives deoxygenated (venous) blood from the body and pumps it into the right ventricle. This then pumps it via the pulmonary artery into the lungs. The blood comes into contact with tidal air and absorbs oxygen via the thin membranes of the pulmonary alveoli. The oxygenated (arterial) blood then flows into the left atrium and on to the left ventricle. From here it is then pumped into the aorta. Four cardiac valves regulate the flow of blood. The tricuspid and mitral valves close to prevent backflow to the atria during contraction of the cardiac chambers (systole). The pulmonary and aortic valves (semilunar valves) prevent the backflow of blood into the chambers during relaxation of the cardiac chambers (diastole). The AV valves open and the cardiac chambers refill with blood. All cardiac valves are formed by the endocardium and held in place by the tendinous chords (heart strings). The walls of the left heart are thicker than those of the right heart as it has to generate much greater pressure. The coronary vessels supply the heart with oxygen and nutrient-rich blood.

Subvalvular aortic stenosis, constriction below the aortic valve in the left ventricular outflow tract

Surgical procedure (babies) for aortic isthmus stenosis. A piece of artery (artery subclavia) is used as a patch to extend the constricted section of the aorta

Subvalvular pulmonary stenosis, i.e. constriction below the pulmonary valve in the infundibulum

Manner of death in connection with electrical problems of the heart, usually caused by ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation (as opposed to the heart infarct with damage to the cardiac muscle resulting from a blocked artery). Can also occur as the result of a myocardial rupture or a total AV block. An AICD system can reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death

Above the valve

Above the ventricle

See arterial switch operation

Part of the sympathetic nervous system that stimulates increased cardiac activity

Sudden, temporary loss of consciousness, faint. Also occur in connection with cardiac defects or cardiac arrhythmias

Clinical picture, characterised by a collection of symptoms (eg Down’s Syndrome)

Main, arterial circulation of blood through the body

The period of contraction of the heart (tightening, contraction of the cardiac muscle); blood is driven out, the heart empties, and the blood is pressed into the pulmonary artery and the aorta

The upper blood pressure value, e.g. 120/80 mm Hg

Cardiac arrhythmia in which the heart rate is abnormally increased and irregular—eg atrial flutter

“Racing heart”, abnormally rapid heart rate

Increased rate of respiration due to increased oxygen requirement or lack of available oxygen

Specific form of DORV (double outlet right ventricle); ventricular septal defect (VSD, subpulmonary) and abnormal (side-to-side) position of the aorta and the pulmonary artery

Surgical attachment of the superior and inferior caval veins to the pulmonary artery, serves the separation of pulmonary and systemic circulation in congenital heart defects, e.g. tricuspid atresia, single ventricle. Type of Fontan operation.

Ultrasound examination, in which a probe is inserted through the throat (oesophagus) to the immediate vicinity of the heart, e.g. during interventional cardiac catheterisation (non-invasive)

Remote transmission of data from a pacemaker (through the skin, non-invasive)

Parachute-like tendinous strands that traverse the heart and connect the cusps of the AV valves to the papillary muscle

Transposition of the great arteries

Chest

The level that must be reached for an impulse to be transmitted to the tissue and stimulate cardiac contraction (cardiac pacemaker)

Surgical removal of a clot from a blood vessel

Blood platelets, are part of the body’s coagulation mechanism by virtue of their ‘stickiness’

Vascular obstruction caused by a travelling blood clot

Dissolution of a blood clot

Tendency to clotting

Inflammation of the vein

Formation of a thrombus in a blood vessel

Prevention of blood clot formation e.g. with anticoagulant drugs such as acetylsalicylic acid (an Aspirin derivate or Coumarin)

Blood clot

A lymphoid organ

Cultivation of tissue/stem-cell treatment: from embryonic and/or adult stem cells—eg for constructing of cardiac valves

Tetralogy of Fallot

The blood flow from some of the pulmonary veins returns to the right instead of to the left atrium, or flows into other systemic veins

Right ventricular outflow tract patch enlargement through the valve ring to the pulmonary artery

Through the atrium

Blood transfusion; the administration of blood or blood components to compensate heavy loss of blood, for example during surgery (see autologous transfusion)

Attachment of a fragment of one chromosome to another chromosome

See TEE

Reversed order/interchanged

Abnormal exit of the main artery and the pulmonary artery from the respective heart ventricle

Inadequate closure of the tricuspid valve, some of the blood flows back into the right atrium and reduces cardiac pumping efficiency

Cardiac valve with three leaflets, between the right atrium and the right ventricle

The valve is closed and the right ventricle underdeveloped. An atrial septal defect (ASD) is always present through which deoxygenated blood can flow from the right to the left atria and ventricle, then into the right ventricle via an existent ventricular septal defect (VSD) and into the outflow path of the right ventricle. Frequently accompanied by constriction of the pulmonary valve

Inadequate closure of the tricuspid valve. Some of the blood flows back into the right atrium and reduces cardiac pumping efficiency

Narrowing of the valve between the right atrium and ventricle

Hormonal examination of the blood of the pregnant woman; can be used to assess the risk of the occurrence of Down’s Syndrome

The condition of having three copies, instead of the normal two copies, of a given chromosome; the number denotes the chromosome affected (eg Trisomy 18, 21)

Often associated with congenital heart defect with delayed motor development and other characteristics of chromosomal diseases

Rare type of congenital heart disease that is characterised by a single blood vessel arising from the right and left ventricles, instead of the normal two

A feeding tube is a medical device that is used to provide nutrition to patients who cannot obtain nutrition by swallowing

Resuscitation tube (see also intubation)

Occurrence of movements due to an obstacle in the blood vessel; turbulent flow

Routine antenatal examination

See sonography

Special catheterisation technique, e.g. for a ductus closure with a small umbrella, which is inserted through the heart and unfolded in the ductus

Collective term for a number of different cardiac defects where just one ventricle drives both circulatory systems (pulmonary and systemic), e.g. single ventricle (DIV)

Relating to the uterus (womb)

Inadequate functioning of the womb/placenta

Longest of the cranial nerves, part of the parasympathetic system, sends inpulses that reduce heart rate

Inadequate closure of a cardiac valve, e.g. with AV or semilunar valve defects

Valve

Relating to the valve

Narrowing or stricture of a cardiac valve, e.g. aortic stenosis

Expansion of a narrowed valve, e.g. with a balloon catheter

Surgical expansion of a narrowed valve

Relating to blood vessels

Replacement of blood vessels using synthetic material, e.g. Goretex, surgical restoration of a blood vessel

Reduction in the size of vessels, diminished circulation

Dilation of a vessel, e.g. to improve circulation to parts of the body

Fungus-like growth, e.g. on a cardiac valve following an infection (endocarditis)

Blood vessel that transports deoxygenated blood to the heart (exception is the pulmonary vein)

Superior and inferior caval veins; collection veins that take up the deoxygenated blood from the upper and lower parts of the body and transport it to the right atrium

Blood in the veins; usually deoxygenated (exception: pulmonary venous blood)

Chamber—eg, heart ventricle, cerebral ventricle

Relating to the ventricle

Life-threatening cardiac arrhythmia that results in uncoordinated cardiac muscle activity and functional circulatory arrest

Severe cardiac arrhythmia with uniform tachycardia originating in one of the ventricles, usually at a rate of 200 – 300 per minute. Possible transition to ventricular fibrillation

Hole in the wall that separates the left and right ventricles

A rapid heartbeat that is caused by abnormal impulses coming from one single area of the ventricle. The rapid heart rate of between 120-250 beats per minute can lead to dizziness, impaired vision and, eventually, unconsciousness

Wall separating the left and right ventricles of the heart
VSD (ventricular septal defect): hole in the wall of the heart (septum), which normally separates the right from the left ventricle; possible spontaneous closure of smaller, particularly muscular VSDs during childhood. VSD can lead to heart failure, require surgery, or be complicated by diseases of the pulmonary vessels

Incision into a ventricle

Resistance to flow, physical property of blood, increases when the blood thickens

Vitamins are chemical compounds required by the organism not as a source of energy but for other vital functions. They cannot be made by the body and have to be included in a person’s diet.

Congenital defect of the heart

Flooding of the heart ventricle with blood

Hole in the wall of the heart (septum) between right and left chamber

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See heterograft