TGA Parent Guide
A simple, supportive resource created by a TGA survivor to help parents understand
Transposition of the Great Arteries, treatment options, hospital choices, and support groups.
What is TGA?
Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) is a congenital heart condition where the two major
arteries leaving the heart — the aorta and the pulmonary artery — are switched.
This affects how oxygen circulates through the body.
History of TGA Surgery
Early TGA surgeries in the 1950s were experimental, but in 1975 the arterial switch operation
revolutionized treatment. Today, it is one of the most successful congenital heart surgeries.
Treatment & Surgery
The arterial switch operation is the primary corrective surgery for TGA. It is usually
performed within the first week of life by specialized pediatric heart surgeons.
Children’s Hospitals for TGA Surgery
Many major children’s hospitals across the U.S. perform arterial switch surgery.
Use the map below to find the closest pediatric heart center.
FAQ
What causes TGA?
TGA develops early in pregnancy. There is no known cause and nothing the parents did wrong.
Can TGA be cured?
Yes. The arterial switch surgery is considered curative for most children.
Support Groups for TGA Parents
These groups help parents connect, share advice, and find emotional support.
- Little Hearts Support Group
- Mended Little Hearts
- Children’s Heart Foundation Family Network
- Facebook: “TGA Parents Support Group”
About Dafni
My name is Dafni. I was born at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) with TGA.
I had my surgery after birth, performed by Dr. Thomas Spray, and my cardiologist is Dr. Merryl Cohen.
I’m creating this website as my Girl Scout Gold Award project to help parents find clear,
trustworthy information about TGA. When I graduate high school, I plan to become a nurse
and hope to work at CHOP — the place that saved my life.