Ebstein's Anomaly In An Adult (1/2)

Ebstein's anomaly is a rare heart defect that's present at birth (congenital). the valve between the chambers on the right side of the heart (the tricuspid valve) does not close correctly. Flaps on the tricuspid valve are abnormally shaped, too large or adhered to the heart wall so they cannot move. As a result of these abnormalities, the valve cannot open and close correctly, and blood can leak backwards into the atrium. Ebstein's anomaly may lead to enlargement of the heart or heart failure. When Ebstein’s anomaly is diagnosed in adulthood, the defect is often less severe and the symptoms are less dramatic. Sometimes, Ebstein’s anomaly is mild in childhood but worsens over time and symptoms develop. In adults, the most common symptoms include shortness of breath, occasional chest pain, getting winded easily during exercise and heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmia). Video by Maged Al Ali MD.