Congenital Heart Surgery

Congenital heart defects (CHD) are heart abnormalities present at birth. While some conditions are mild and may not require treatment, others can be life-threatening and need surgical intervention. Congenital Heart Surgery is performed to correct these structural heart defects, ensuring that children and adults with CHD can lead healthy, active lives.

If your child or loved one has been diagnosed with a congenital heart defect, expert care is essential. Dr. Aliasgar Bahrainwala, a renowned Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgeon in Mumbai, specializes in advanced congenital heart surgeries for both children and adults.

Book a consultation today to ensure a healthier future for your heart! 💙

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What is Congenital Heart Surgery?

Congenital heart surgery is a specialized procedure designed to repair heart defects that develop before birth. These defects affect the heart’s structure, including:
✔ Holes in the heart (Atrial Septal Defect, Ventricular Septal Defect)
✔ Narrowed or blocked valves (Pulmonary Stenosis, Aortic Stenosis)
✔ Underdeveloped heart chambers (Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome)
✔ Defects in major arteries (Transposition of Great Arteries, Coarctation of Aorta)

The surgery may involve open-heart procedures or minimally invasive techniques, depending on the complexity of the condition

Causes of Congenital Heart Defects

The exact cause of congenital heart defects is often unknown, but several factors may contribute, including:
✔ Genetic Factors: Family history of CHD increases the risk.
✔ Maternal Infections During Pregnancy: Infections like rubella can affect fetal heart development.
✔ Medications & Alcohol Use: Certain drugs and alcohol consumption during pregnancy may lead to heart defects.
✔ Diabetes or Other Maternal Health Conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes can increase the risk of congenital heart disease.
✔ Chromosomal Abnormalities: Conditions like Down syndrome are often associated with heart defects.

Symptoms of Congenital Heart Defects

Symptoms can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Some defects show no symptoms at birth, while others present early signs such as:
✔ Bluish skin, lips, or nails (cyanosis).
✔ Rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
✔ Poor feeding and slow weight gain in infants.
✔ Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes.
✔ Fatigue and inability to engage in physical activities.

In some cases, congenital heart defects may not be detected until adulthood, when symptoms like chest pain, palpitations, or dizziness appear.

Why is Congenital Heart Surgery Necessary?

Not all congenital heart defects require surgery. However, severe cases can cause life-threatening complications such as:
✔ Heart failure due to inefficient blood circulation.
✔ High blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension).
✔ Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias).
✔ Developmental delays in children due to poor oxygen supply.

Timely surgical intervention can correct defects, improve heart function, and prevent long-term complications.

Benefits of Congenital Heart Surgery

✅ Restores Normal Blood Flow: Allows the heart to pump efficiently.
✅ Prevents Life-Threatening Complications: Reduces the risk of heart failure and other serious conditions.
✅ Enhances Growth & Development in Children: Ensures proper oxygen supply for normal physical and mental growth.
✅ Improves Quality of Life: Enables children and adults to lead active, healthy lives.
✅ Long-Term Survival: Modern surgical techniques ensure better outcomes and longevity for patients with congenital heart defects.

Dr. Aliasgar Bahrainwala