Congenital Heart Defects (CHDs) are structural problems in the heart that are present at birth. These defects can range from simple issues like small holes in the heart to more complex conditions involving missing or improperly formed parts of the heart. CHDs are among the most common types of birth defects and, if left untreated, may lead to complications such as poor blood circulation, developmental delays, heart failure, or even death.
Dr. Palkesh Agrawal, an experienced Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon in Kota, is well-known for performing intricate congenital heart defect repairs in children and adults. His compassionate approach, combined with advanced surgical techniques, helps restore normal heart function and improve patients’ overall quality of life.
What Are Congenital Heart Defect Repairs?
Congenital heart defect repairs involve surgical or catheter-based procedures to correct abnormalities in the heart’s structure. These may include issues with the walls of the heart, the valves, or the arteries and veins near the heart. The goal of treatment is to restore normal blood flow, relieve symptoms, and prevent long-term damage to the heart and other organs.
Common congenital heart defects that may require surgical repair include:
- Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) – a hole in the wall between the upper chambers
- Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) – a hole between the lower chambers
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) – a persistent opening between two major blood vessels
- Tetralogy of Fallot – a combination of four heart defects
- Coarctation of the Aorta – narrowing of the aorta
- Transposition of the Great Arteries – the two main arteries are reversed
The type and timing of the repair depend on the severity of the defect, symptoms, and the age of the patient.
When Are Congenital Heart Defect Repairs Recommended?
Congenital heart defect repairs may be recommended in the following scenarios:
- Persistent symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, poor weight gain, or bluish skin (cyanosis)
- Risk of heart failure or damage to the lungs due to abnormal blood flow
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias) caused by structural defects
- Growth and development concerns in infants or children
- Risk of stroke or infections such as endocarditis
Some defects require immediate surgery after birth, while others may be monitored over time and repaired during childhood or even adulthood.
The Procedure: What to Expect
Congenital heart defect repairs are performed in a specialised cardiac surgery centre under general anaesthesia. The nature of the procedure varies based on the defect type and severity.
Preoperative Evaluation: Diagnostic imaging such as echocardiography, cardiac MRI, CT scans, or cardiac catheterisation is performed to assess the defect. A detailed plan is made for surgical or catheter-based intervention.
Surgical Repair:
- Open-heart surgery is performed for most complex defects.
- The surgeon makes an incision in the chest to access the heart and may use a heart-lung machine.
- The defect is repaired using sutures, patches, or by reconstructing malformed vessels or valves.
- In some cases, valves may need to be repaired or replaced.
Catheter-Based Repair (Minimally Invasive):
- For simpler defects like ASD or PDA, a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided to the heart.
- A closure device or stent is placed to fix the defect without open surgery.
Recovery After Congenital Heart Surgery
The recovery period depends on the complexity of the defect and the type of procedure performed.
- Patients are monitored in the ICU for the first 24–72 hours.
- Most children and adults stay in the hospital for 5 to 10 days post-surgery.
- Pain, swelling, or fatigue are common initially but improve with time.
- Follow-up care includes medications, wound care, and regular monitoring of heart function.
In many cases, patients are enrolled in a cardiac rehabilitation program, especially after major surgery, to rebuild strength and encourage heart-healthy habits.
Risks and Complications
While congenital heart defect repair is generally safe and life-saving, it may carry some risks, especially in complex or multiple defects. These may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Heart rhythm disturbances
- Residual leaks or obstruction
- Blood clots or stroke (rare)
- Lung complications
Choosing an experienced cardiac surgeon like Dr. Palkesh Agrawal and a well-equipped hospital setting helps minimise these risks and ensures a smoother recovery.
Life After Congenital Heart Defect Repair
Thanks to advances in surgical techniques and follow-up care, most patients with repaired congenital heart defects live long, healthy lives. Post-repair outcomes often include:
- Normal or near-normal heart function
- Improved growth and development in children
- Better exercise tolerance and energy levels
- Reduced risk of complications like stroke or heart failure
Long-term follow-up is essential, as some patients may require additional procedures later in life or continued monitoring for valve function or arrhythmias.
Take the First Step Toward a Healthier Heart
Early diagnosis and timely surgical intervention can dramatically improve outcomes for patients with congenital heart defects. Whether it's a newborn with a complex heart defect or an adult discovering a previously undiagnosed condition, expert care can make all the difference.
Dr. Palkesh Agrawal, a trusted Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgeon in Kota, offers state-of-the-art congenital heart surgery with unmatched dedication and expertise. His patient-centered approach ensures that every child or adult receives personalised care with the highest safety standards.
