Congenital Heart Defects: The Most Common Pediatric Cardiac Diagnosis
Congenital heart disease as a group is the most common type of serious heart disease in children, occurring in approximately 1 in 100 live births. Among individual defects, ventricular septal defects (holes between the lower chambers of the heart) are the single most frequently diagnosed structural abnormality, followed by atrial septal defects, patent ductus arteriosus, pulmonary valve stenosis, and coarctation of the aorta. Many small ventricular and atrial septal defects close spontaneously in infancy or early childhood and require no intervention. Larger or more complex defects typically require catheter-based closure or open-heart surgery to prevent progressive damage to the heart and lungs. Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC provides expert follow-up care for children and adults living with congenital heart defects across New York by telemedicine.
Reviewed by Dr. Pradeepkumar Charla, MD, MBA, FAAP, FACC
Pediatric & Adult Congenital Cardiologist — Congenital Heart Compass Medical PLLC
Last reviewed:
Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified cardiologist for decisions about your congenital heart disease care.