Congenital Cardiac Disease in the Newborn Infant: Past, Present, and Future

Congenital heart defects are the most common of all congenital malformations, with a review of the literature reporting the incidence at 6 to 8 per 1000 live births. The Centers for Disease Control reports cyanotic heart defects occurred in 56.9 per 100,000 live births in the United States in 2005, with higher rates noted when maternal age exceeded 40 years. The incidence of congenital heart disease in premature infants is 12.5 per 1000 live births, excluding isolated patent ductus arteriosus and atrial septal defect. Despite advances in detection and treatment, congenital heart disease accounts for 3% of all infant deaths and 46% of death from congenital malformations. This article discusses the embryology, pathogenesis, clinical presentation, incidence, classifications, and management of congenital heart diseases.