A combination of four heart defects present at birth.

Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defect, affecting approximately 1% of all newborns. With advances in pediatric cardiac surgery, most children with congenital heart defects can now survive into adulthood and lead full, active lives.

Diagnosis typically involves a combination of physical examination, echocardiography, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram (ECG), and in some cases, cardiac catheterization or MRI. Early detection and intervention are critical for optimal outcomes.

Treatment options depend on the specific defect and its severity. Options include medication management, catheter-based interventions, and surgical correction. Many conditions can be completely corrected with a single surgery, while more complex conditions may require staged procedures over time.