Common Types of Congenital Heart Defects in Children

Congenital heart disease in children is generally categorized into two main groups: complex and simple heart defects. Each classification includes various specific conditions that affect the structure and function of the heart. Understanding these types can help parents and caregivers identify potential issues early and seek appropriate medical care.

Complex Congenital Heart Defects

Complex heart defects often require more intensive medical intervention and may involve multiple structural abnormalities. Some of the most common complex defects include:

Tetralogy of Fallot: A combination of four related heart defects that affect blood flow to the lungs and cause oxygen-poor blood to circulate throughout the body.
Abnormal Pulmonary Venous Return: This condition occurs when the pulmonary veins don't connect properly to the left atrium, leading to improper blood flow.
Atrioventricular Septal Defect: Also known as endocardial cushion defect, this involves a hole in the center of the heart and issues with the heart valves.
D-Transposition of the Great Arteries: A condition in which the two main arteries leaving the heart are reversed, causing oxygen-poor blood to circulate through the body without reaching the lungs.

Simple Congenital Heart Defects

Simple defects are often less severe and may close on their own or require less invasive treatment. Common types include:

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)

This defect involves a hole in the wall between the two upper chambers of the heart (atria). There are two primary types:

Primum ASD: Located in the lower part of the atrial septum, often associated with other heart abnormalities.
Secundum ASD: The most common type, found in the middle of the atrial septum.

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

A hole in the wall separating the two lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). VSDs can be classified based on their location:

Perimembranous VSD: Found near the heart valves.
Muscular VSD: Located in the muscular part of the septum.
Subarterial VSD: Situated beneath the semilunar arteries.

Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)

This condition occurs when the ductus arteriosus—a blood vessel that connects the aorta and the pulmonary artery—fails to close after birth. As a result, blood may flow abnormally between the two vessels, increasing blood pressure in the lungs.

Valvular Abnormalities

Valve issues are also common in children with congenital heart disease. One of the most frequent is:

Pulmonary Valve Stenosis: A narrowing of the pulmonary valve that restricts blood flow from the right ventricle to the lungs. It can range from mild to severe and may be associated with other heart defects.