Correlation of NYHA classification, bicycle ergometry and right heart haemodynamics after total correction of tetralogy of Fallot in adults.

Thirty-two patients who had undergone correction of Fallot's tetralogy in adult life were examined on average 6.3 years postoperatively, at mean age 25.8 years. Palliative shunt operation had been performed in childhood in 28 cases. The clinical condition was good in 25 patients (78%). 13 of whom had mean gradient between right ventricle and pulmonary artery 16.0 +/- 4.2 mmHg and systolic right ventricular pressure 39.0 +/- 10.0 mmHg, while 12 had right ventricular pressure 62.6 +/- 16.3 mmHg. In these groups the maximum exercise capacity was, respectively, 136.7 +/- 36.1 and 106.1 +/- 30.8 W/min. Three other patients were in satisfactory, and four in poor clinical condition, with right ventricular systolic pressure, respectively, 74.3 +/- 10.9 and 91.5 +/- 60.0 mmHg. The gradient from right ventricle to pulmonary artery averaged 58.5 +/- 10.4 mmHg in the latter group but, despite the obstructed pulmonary outflow tract, the exercise capacity (116.7 +/- 28.9 W/min) was similar to that in the groups with better clinical results. It is concluded that in most patients with palliative surgery in childhood, tetralogy of Fallot can be successfully corrected in adult life. The causes of right ventricular impairment do not significantly reduce the exercise capacity.