Soon after surgery, babies have more energy and start to eat better and gain weight faster. But your baby may need high-calorie formula for several weeks or months after surgery. Your baby may also need tube feedings until they are able to feed better.
Your baby may become tired easily and sleep more right after surgery. But in a few weeks, they should be fully recovered.
You may get other instructions from your child's cardiac team and the hospital staff.
Most children who have had truncus arteriosus surgical repair will live healthy lives. Their activity levels, appetite and growth will often return to normal. Talk with your child's cardiologist about what activities and sports are safe for your child.
Your child most likely will need more surgery as he or she grows. Surgery in young adulthood may also be needed. These surgeries may involve replacing valves, repairing a narrowed aorta or pulmonary arteries or replacing conduits.
The cardiologist may advise that your child take antibiotics before surgery or dental procedures. This is to prevent infection in the lining of the heart and heart valves (bacterial endocarditis).
Your child will need regular follow-up care at a pediatric or adult congenital cardiac care center throughout life.
Talk with the cardiologist about your child’s outlook.