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Congenital heart defects in children

Congenital heart defects in children - How to prevent?

Congenital heart defects in children - Treatments

For certain congenital heart defects in children, there may have no significant effect on the child's health, and the defect can be left untreated. Some defects, such as small holes, can even correct themselves as the child ages.

However, some cases of congenital heart defects are more critical and require immediate treatment. Depending on the severity of heart defect the child has, treatment for congenital heart defects include:

Catheterisation Procedures
Open-heart surgery
Heart transplant
Medications

For some cases, a combination of treatments is required. Certain catheter or surgical procedures also have to be carried out in steps or over a longer time period. Some treatments may need to be repeated as a child grows.

Children with congenital heart defects may require treatment throughout life, especially for conditions which are more severe. It is important to take note of the following considerations:

Long term monitoring and treatment – While the recoveries for children with heart defects have improved greatly, many patients with serious conditions will need continuous care and monitoring, even after their surgical treatments.
Preventing Infection – In some congenital heart defect cases, there can be increased risk of infections in the lining of the heart or heart valves. Hence, the child patient may need to take antibiotics to prevent infection before other surgeries or dental procedures. Patients with a heart device may also have a higher risk of infection. Seek your doctor’s advice to check if antibiotics are necessary.
Exercise restrictions – Some children may need to limit the type or amount of exercise, while many others can participate in normal activities. Seek your doctor’s advice for activities suitable for the patient.

Congenital heart defects in children - Preparing for surgery

Congenital heart defects in children - Other Information

Article contributed by Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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