What type of heart defect is characterized by the absence of the left ventricle?

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a critical congenital heart defect characterized by the underdevelopment of the left side of the heart, specifically the left ventricle. In this condition, both the left ventricle and the structures associated with it (including the aorta and mitral valve) are significantly smaller or absent. This leads to an inadequate flow of oxygenated blood to the body since the left ventricle is responsible for pumping oxygen-rich blood from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Management of hypoplastic left heart syndrome usually requires a series of surgical interventions aimed at reconstructing the heart’s anatomy to improve blood flow and oxygen delivery. Understanding this condition is crucial, as early diagnosis and intervention can significantly affect the prognosis and quality of life for the affected child.

The other conditions mentioned involve different abnormalities that do not primarily result in the absence of the left ventricle. For instance, transposition of the great vessels involves a reversal of the normal aortic and pulmonary arteries but does not involve the absence of structures on the left side of the heart. Tricuspid atresia refers to a missing or abnormal tricuspid valve, while coarctation of the aorta is a narrowing of the aorta that affects blood flow but