Complex Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD) refers to a group of congenital heart defects that involve multiple abnormalities in the heart’s structure and require surgical or catheter interventions early in life. Unlike less severe congenital defects, CCHDs have a significant impact on blood flow, leading to issues such as inadequate oxygen delivery throughout the body, and can result in life-threatening complications if not treated promptly. These defects typically involve more than one structural abnormality and often affect the heart valves, chambers, or blood vessels.
- In this defect, the positions of the two main arteries leaving the heart are switched.This results in two separate circulatory loops, with oxygen-poor blood circulating to the body and oxygen-rich blood circulating back to the lungs.
- TGA is a life-threatening condition that usually requires immediate corrective surgery (such as an arterial switch operation) in the first few weeks of life.
Clinical Features
- Cyanosis: Blue or purple discoloration of the skin due to inadequate oxygenation of the blood.
- Difficulty Breathing: Infants may exhibit rapid, shallow breathing or increased effort to breathe.
- Poor Feeding and Growth: Babies may have trouble feeding due to fatigue or difficulty breathing, resulting in slower than expected weight gain.
- Fatigue and Weakness: Due to inadequate oxygen supply to tissues, infants may tire easily, even with minimal activity.
- Polycythemia: An increase in red blood cells can occur as the body attempts to compensate for low oxygen levels, leading to thicker blood and potential clotting issues.
Why Should You Choose A Cardiac Surgeon At Aster Hospitals?
Aster Hospitals stands out as a premier choice due to its integrated, multidisciplinary approach combining cutting-edge technology with specialized expertise. Our pediatric cardiac surgeon department features advanced diagnostic tools like fetal echocardiography, 4D cardiac MRI, and 3D CT angiography, enabling early detection of complex heart defects even during pregnancy. For interventions, we utilize hybrid catheterization labs to perform minimally invasive procedures such as balloon valvuloplasty, ASD/VSD device closures, and PDA stenting, significantly reducing recovery times compared to traditional surgery.
Our hospital’s 24/7 dedicated cardiac care team include pediatric cardiac surgeon,, congenital heart surgeon, pediatric intensivist, and rehabilitation specialists trained in neonatal and adolescent cardiac needs. This ensures seamless care from diagnosis through complex surgeries like arterial switch operations or truncus arteriosus repair. Post-operatively, patients benefit from dedicated cardiac ICUs equipped with ECMO support and advanced monitoring systems; our accreditations and outcomes-focused protocols ensure adherence to global standards, while their investment in AI-driven clinical decision support enhances treatment precision. Genetic counseling services and long-term follow-up programs further address the holistic needs of CCHD patients. By combining technological innovation with compassionate, family-centered care, Aster delivers comprehensive solutions for even the most complex congenital heart conditions.
Conclusion
Complex congenital heart disease is a life-altering condition requiring prompt diagnosis, specialized interventions, and continuous care. Advances in surgical techniques, medical management, and diagnostic capabilities have significantly improved survival rates and outcomes for children born with these severe defects. Early intervention by a cardiac surgeon Ccand ongoing follow-up care are crucial for ensuring optimal health and quality of life.
