Tetrology of Fallot, or TOF, is a congenital heart condition that results in a decreased flow of oxygenated.  This is due to a mix of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood that is forced to flow through the aorta by an obstruction in the pulmonary valve.  Symptoms include a heart murmur that can range in severity, low blood oxygen saturation, swelling of the fingers or toes, trouble feeding, difficulty in weight gaining and lack of proper growth and physical development. The cause can be either genetic or due to an intake of certain drugs during pregnancy.  Recent studies have shown a connection between SSRI antidepressant drugs such as Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro and Sarafem and Tetralogy of Fallot. 

Diagnosis is typically done with echocardiography, which involves no radiation and is quicker than X-ray. Since 1954, open-heart surgery has been the main method of treatment and has a high success rate. Another procedure, called Palliative Surgery, involves the connection of the subclavian and pulmonary arteries to increase blood flow in the pulmonary circuit.

Has your baby been diagnosed with a Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF)? Were you prescribed antidepressant SSRI drugs such as Prozac, Zoloft, Celexa, Lexapro or Sarafem?  SSRIs are drugs known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors.

If so, you should know that these medications have been linked with serious heart defects in infants when taken by their pregnant mothers.

In addition to seeking the necessary care for your baby, you should consult a board certified personal injury trial law specialist to determine if you and your baby are entitled to compensation. Lawsuits are being investigated and filed around the country for similar conditions.

Michael P. Fleming, former elected Harris County Attorney, is board certified as a specialist in personal injury trial law by the Texas board of legal specialization.

In addition to being board certified as a specialist in Personal Injury Trial Law and well-known as the former Harris County Attorney, Michael P. Fleming has been recognized as a Texas Super Lawyer for many years. His Houston law firm is AV rated by Martindale - Hubbell (the highest rating) and has been featured in H-Texas Magazine's Top Attorneys in Houston issue which features the best Houston lawyers and law firms. He is also one of the small percentage of attorneys in the entire country to have had the privilege of arguing and winning a case before the Supreme Court of the United States.

Tetralogy of Fallot Lawsuits are being filed on behalf of babies from all fifty states.

If you have a serious personal injury, wrongful death or litigation matter, contact an attorney with the qualifications, experience and reputation you can trust. Michael P. Fleming is a Houston personal injury lawyer with the qualifications and experience you deserve.