Congenital Heart Defects

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Prognosis

Although the outlook for children with congenital heart defects varies greatly depending on the specific defect, children who receive early diagnosis and appropriate medical attention usually have the best possible prognoses. As medical technology continues to advance, the prognoses for babies born with heart defects is constantly improving.

Children diagnosed with heart defects should continue to have regular monitoring by a cardiologist throughout their lives to reduce the risk for developing heart disease as they age.

Some congenital heart defects that are undetectable in childhood can cause disabilities as the person ages. Therefore, it is important for everyone to have yearly check ups throughout childhood, adolescence, and into adulthood.

Current Research

Progress in surgical methods, genetic research, transplantation, and catheterization techniques continue to advance the treatment of children born with congenital heart defects. Today, many more children are able to live healthy, productive lives because of ongoing research efforts.

New advances in genetics research are leading to a better understanding of the origins of congenital heart defects. This research can help to assess the risks for families with a history of heart defects. Future genetic research may help physicians detect and repair heart defects before birth while the heart is still forming.

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