Congenital heart defects

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Congenital heart defects

Congenital heart defects are structural heart problems or abnormalities that have been present since birth.

Congenital heart defects usually have no known cause. In some cases, they may be passed from a parent to a child (inherited). They also may develop in the unborn baby (fetus) of a woman who has an infection or who is exposed to radiation or other toxic substances during her pregnancy.

Having a congenital heart defect increases the risk for developing complications, such as heart failure, endocarditis, atrial fibrillation, and heart valve problems.

Most congenital heart defects are detected shortly after birth, although some are not discovered for years. Some defects are severe enough to cause death. Some resolve on their own and may not need any treatment. Babies with large or complex defects usually require surgery. Many children with corrected heart defects go on to lead normal lives, but they usually require lifelong monitoring of their condition.

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Author	Robin Parks, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor	Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer	Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology
Last Updated	October 25, 2007

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Last updated:	October 25, 2007
Author:	Robin Parks, MS
Reviewed By:	Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics, Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC

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