CONGENITAL HEART DISEASES: FROM PATHOPHYSIOLOGY TO TREATMENT – RECOGNITION AND INTERVENTIONS

Abstract

This article reviews the main congenital heart diseases, addressing their clinical manifestations, pathophysiology and treatment options. Understanding these conditions is essential for accurate diagnosis, effective therapies and preventive strategies, aiming to improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients. The review is based on 10 selected articles, which explore the pathophysiology, diagnosis and therapies, enriching the knowledge about these heart diseases. The conditions are classified as cyanotic and acyanotic, with differences in clinical manifestations. Cyanotic heart diseases, such as tetralogy of Fallot and transposition of the great arteries, present cyanosis and severe hemodynamic impairment. Acyanotic heart diseases, such as interatrial and interventricular septal defects, present less intense symptoms, but require monitoring. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for prognosis. Advances in imaging techniques, such as fetal echocardiography, and in minimally invasive surgical interventions have improved the detection and management of these conditions, reducing neonatal mortality and improving quality of life. Although cyanotic heart disease often requires urgent surgical correction, acyanotic heart disease requires constant monitoring and, in some cases, surgical intervention. Continuous monitoring and parental education are crucial to ensure long-term well-being. Collaboration between specialists has contributed significantly to improving clinical outcomes. In summary, with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, it is possible to reduce mortality and offer a healthy and active life to patients with congenital heart disease.

Keywords: congenital heart disease; pathological mechanisms; therapeutic approach; diagnosis; interventional procedures.