Congenital Heart Defects in Children

Congenital heart defects (CHDs) represent a wide spectrum of structural anomalies in the heart and great vessels that are present at birth and result from improper development during embryogenesis. These conditions are the most common type of congenital malformation, affecting nearly 1% of live births globally. CHDs range in severity from simple lesions, such as small atrial or ventricular septal defects that may close spontaneously or require minimal intervention, to complex anomalies, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome or transposition of the great arteries, which often necessitate urgent, staged surgical correction and lifelong follow-up. The etiology of CHDs is multifactorial, involving genetic predispositions and environmental influences. The clinical presentation varies significantly depending on the defect type, with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic murmurs to severe cyanosis and congestive heart failure in neonates. Advances in prenatal imaging, neonatal intensive care, pediatric cardiac surgery, and postoperative management have dramatically improved survival and quality of life for affected children. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the classification, etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic modalities, and therapeutic strategies associated with congenital heart defects in children. It also emphasizes long-term outcomes, psychosocial challenges, and recent innovations in the management of these conditions.