
pulmonary atresia
Pulmonary atresia is a heart defect where the opening from the right ventricle to the lungs (the pulmonary valve) doesn't develop properly, blocking blood flow to the lungs for oxygen. Instead, blood bypasses the normal route through abnormal connections or shunts, which can lead to inadequate oxygen levels in the blood. This condition often requires surgery or other interventions soon after birth to restore proper blood flow and ensure enough oxygen reaches the body. It's a serious, congenital heart defect that medical teams manage with specialized care.