Patent ductus arteriosus

Patent ductus arteriosus

The PDA refers to a congenital heart disorder that occurs when after birth, the neonate’s ductus arteriosus refuses to close. In most cases, there are no signs or early symptoms; however, during the first year, symptoms such as increased breathing rates and low weight gain can be experienced. This may be aggravated with age and if nothing is done to correct the anomaly; it can lead to congestive heart failure. As such, the ductus arteriosus refers to a normal fetal blood vessel that shuts down immediately after birth.

Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot

Tetralogy of Fallot

This refers to a congenital heart complication involving 4 types of anatomical heart abnormalities. However, only three of these conditions are common. In fact, TOF stands out as the most common cyanotic heart condition and the commonest cause of a condition known as blue baby syndrome.

Classification of Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital Heart Disease

Classification of Congenital Heart Disease

There exist different classification systems of congenital heart defects. It was in the year 2000 when an international congenital heart naming was founded to offer a generic system of classification. In this case, various congenital defects were discovered and these include: