Intermediate Technical IVT

congenital heart disease

Also written as: CHD

Structural heart abnormalities present from birth affecting normal cardiac function.

Full Definition

Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompasses a range of structural abnormalities of the heart and great vessels that are present from birth. These defects can range from simple lesions like small septal defects that may close spontaneously to complex conditions requiring multiple surgical interventions. CHD is the most common type of birth defect and a leading cause of infant mortality. In pediatric documentation, precise terminology distinguishing between cyanotic and acyanotic lesions, simple versus complex defects, and ductal-dependent versus non-ductal-dependent conditions is essential for appropriate care coordination.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish between cyanotic and acyanotic types; specify complexity level for treatment planning.

In Context

"Fetal echocardiography revealed complex congenital heart disease requiring neonatal cardiac surgery." — Prenatal consultation note
"The infant's congenital heart disease was classified as ductal-dependent, necessitating prostaglandin infusion." — NICU progress note

Also known as

CHD congenital cardiac defect

Contrasted with

normal cardiac anatomy

Don't confuse with

acquired heart disease cardiomyopathy

congenital diaphragmatic hernia ← Back to glossary corrected gestational age