Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV)
Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV) is a rare and complex congenital heart defect that affects the way blood flows through the heart. In this condition, both atria (the two upper chambers of the heart) are connected to the left ventricle, instead of having one atrium connected to the right ventricle and the other to the left. As a result, the right ventricle is either very small or underdeveloped, which disrupts the heart’s normal pumping function.
At CureU Healthcare, we specialize in connecting international patients with world-class pediatric cardiologists and cardiac surgeons in India, offering advanced treatment options for children born with congenital heart conditions such as DILV.
What is Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV)?
In a normal heart, blood from the body flows into the right atrium and then into the right ventricle, which pumps it to the lungs for oxygenation. Oxygen-rich blood from the lungs enters the left atrium and then the left ventricle, which pumps it to the rest of the body.
In DILV, both atria connect only to the left ventricle, causing oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix together. The single functioning ventricle then pumps this mixed blood to both the lungs and the rest of the body, which can lead to low oxygen levels, poor growth, and heart failure if not treated.
Symptoms of DILV
The symptoms of Double Inlet Left Ventricle often appear shortly after birth or within the first few weeks of life. Common signs include:
- Bluish skin, lips, and nails (cyanosis) due to low oxygen levels
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Poor feeding and difficulty gaining weight
- Excessive sweating, especially while feeding
- Fatigue and irritability
- Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes
Causes and Risk Factors
DILV is a congenital heart defect, meaning it develops before birth. While the exact cause is not always known, some factors that may increase the risk include:
- Genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities
- Family history of congenital heart disease
- Maternal illnesses during pregnancy, such as viral infections
- Environmental factors or certain medications taken during pregnancy
Diagnosis of Double Inlet Left Ventricle
Early diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment. Doctors may use the following tests to diagnose DILV:
- Echocardiogram (Echo) Uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart and detect abnormal connections.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) Measures the electrical activity of the heart to check for rhythm problems.
- Chest X-ray Shows the size and shape of the heart and lungs.
- Pulse Oximetry Measures oxygen levels in the blood.
- Cardiac MRI or CT Scan Provides detailed 3D images of the heart for surgical planning.
- Cardiac Catheterization Helps evaluate heart function, pressures, and oxygen levels inside the heart.
Treatment Options for DILV
Double Inlet Left Ventricle cannot be cured completely, but it can be managed with surgeries and medical care to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery. Treatment usually involves staged surgeries performed during childhood.
Medications
Initially, medications may be prescribed to:
- Improve heart function
- Reduce fluid buildup
- Prevent blood clots
Surgical Treatments
Surgery is the mainstay of treatment for DILV. Common surgical approaches include:
- Pulmonary Artery Banding Performed in infants to reduce excessive blood flow to the lungs.
- Glenn Procedure Redirects blood from the upper body directly to the lungs, reducing the workload of the single ventricle.
- Fontan Procedure The final stage, usually performed between 18 months and 4 years, directs blood from the lower body to the lungs, allowing the single ventricle to pump oxygen-rich blood to the body.
Heart Transplant
In rare cases where staged surgeries are not effective, a heart transplant may be considered as the best option.
Life After Treatment
With timely treatment, many children with DILV can live active and fulfilling lives. However, lifelong follow-up care with a cardiologist is essential. Patients may require:
- Regular cardiac checkups
- Monitoring for arrhythmias, heart failure, or blood clot formation
- Medications to support heart function
- Lifestyle adjustments, such as avoiding intense physical activity
Why Choose India for DILV Treatment with CureU Healthcare?
India has emerged as a global hub for pediatric cardiac care, offering high success rates at affordable costs. Through CureU Healthcare, international patients benefit from:
- Access to top pediatric cardiologists and cardiac surgeons
- State-of-the-art cardiac hospitals with advanced technology
- Affordable treatment costs compared to Western countries
- Comprehensive patient support, including medical visa assistance, travel arrangements, and language interpretation services
- Compassionate care tailored to children and families
Conclusion
Double Inlet Left Ventricle (DILV) is a serious but manageable congenital heart condition. With early diagnosis, staged surgeries, and expert care, children born with this defect can live healthier and more active lives.
At CureU Healthcare, we are dedicated to helping families from around the world access the best treatment options for congenital heart defects in India, ensuring a smooth and supportive journey toward recovery.
