Congenital heart defects (CHDs) that often require surgical repair include atrial septal defects (ASDs), ventricular septal defects (VSDs), Tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries (TGA), coarctation of the aorta, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).
Immediately after surgery, patients are typically monitored in an intensive care unit (ICU) for close observation. Pain management, wound care, and activity restrictions are important aspects of the recovery process. Patients may gradually resume light activities as healing progresses, and regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor the heart's function and ensure proper recovery.
While congenital heart defect repair is often necessary to improve heart function and overall health, it carries certain risks. These include bleeding, infection, cardiac complications (such as arrhythmias or heart failure), blood clot formation, and damage to the heart or surrounding structures.