Although, in most cases malformations at birth are due to genetic causes. There are other risk factors present in the gestation stage, which can significantly affect the development of the fetus. Thus, heart defects are frequent in children, being possible to correct them thanks to technological advances and early detection.
In fact, when these failures are discovered in the valves, chambers, arteries or veins of the heart, of the newborn, it becomes an advantage. Especially, because corrections can be carried out in a short time. Without leaving space for the possible complications that may arise, hindering the correct physical, cognitive and social development of the child.
Therefore, faced with some risk factors; such as a family history of heart problems, maternal infections in the first trimester of pregnancy, chronic conditions in the mother, and alcohol or drug use during pregnancy; it is necessary to carry out different diagnostic tests, which reveal any type of failure.1
Hence, technology offers the possibility of performing a fetal electrocardiogram in the mother’s womb. To closely evaluate blood flow, heart rate, and heart structure. In the same way after birth other tests are used; such as echocardiography, cardiac catheterization, or magnetic resonance imaging; to show any cardiovascular damage.1
Heart defects possible to correct
In Mexico, according to information posted on the official website of the Mexican Heart Foundation; https://fundacionmexicanadelcorazon.org/; congenital heart disease ranks second among newborns, after malformations of the central nervous system. Thus, there is a higher prevalence of anomalies of the ductus arteriosus and defects in atrial septal defect.
- Therefore, patent ductus arteriosus is one of the most common heart defects in infants. Presenting an opening between two blood vessels that connect to the heart. What it does is that, if the hole does not close and is large, the walls of the heart muscle are weakened. In addition, developmental delays and breathing, growth, and feeding problems can occur.2
- In the same way, defects of the complete atrioventricular canal denote a hole in the center of the heart chamber. Which indicates that the blood is mixing and not circulating properly. Hence, the heart and lungs have a harder work, easily causing problems in breathing, growth and feeding. In addition, it can cause serious damage to the circulatory system. 3
- Similarly, pulmonary valve stenosis or obstruction occurs as a common congenital heart defect in young children. Where blood flow is decreased due to a deformation of the pulmonary valve. Which leads, in moderate to severe cases, requiring corrective surgery to avoid chronic fatigue, respiratory problems and growth retardation.3
In summary
We can conclude that chromosomal abnormalities clearly affect the fetus. But also chickenpox or rubella infections in pregnancy or having a chronic disease, such as hypertension or diabetes. Therefore, seeking medical guidance and complying with the prenatal plan is important to reduce risk factors. Mainly, because heart defects can be detected and corrected; from an early age; so as not to slow down the physical, psychological and intellectual development of the child.
References:
1.Valentín Rodríguez Aymara. Congenital heart disease in pediatric age, clinical and epidemiological aspects. Rev. Med. Electron. [Internet]. 2018 Aug [citado 2021 Jun 24]; 40 (4): 1083-1099. Available in:
http://scielo.sld.cu/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1684-18242018000400015&lng=es.
2.González-Lorenzo RJ, Cedeño-Ramírez Y, Sotolongo-Castillo Md, Mayo-Díaz AR. Characterization of newborns with patent ductus arteriosus, a five-year study. Rev. electron. Zoilo [Internet]. 2019 [citado 24 Jun 2021]; 44 (5). Available in: http://revzoilomarinello.sld.cu/index.php/zmv/article/view/1944.
3.Gabriel Cassalett-Bustillo. Heart failure in pediatric patients. Pathophysiology and management. Rev. Col. Cardiol. [internet]2018 [consultado 24 jun 2021]; 25 (4): 286-294. Available in:
http://www.scielo.org.co/pdf/rcca/v25n4/0120-5633-rcca-25-04-00286.pdf.