Select a topic from the list below to learn more.
Introduction
The Normal Heart and How It Works
Common Congenital Heart Defects
- Aortic Valve Stenosis and Regurgitation
- Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
- Coarctation of the Aorta
- Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect (CAVC)
- d-Transposition of the Great Arteries
- Ebstein's Anomaly
- l-Transposition of the Great Arteries
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
- Pulmonary Valve Stenosis and Regurgitation
Single-Ventricle Defects:
Diagnosis and Testing
Diagnostic Evaluation
In each of the sections on specific congenital heart problems, regular follow-up with a cardiologist is recommended. This section describes the types of tests that often will be performed. Cardiologists will take your medical history and perform a physical exam. They may also order an electrocardiogram (called an EKG or ECG), chest X-ray, or an echocardiogram (ultrasound movie of the heart). Blood tests are particularly important in patients with cyanosis and single ventricle hearts treated with Fontan operations.
The cardiology staff will talk to you about each test. Don’t hesitate to ask the cardiologist, nurse or technician to explain these tests. After your tests are completed, your cardiologist will explain the results and whether further care is needed.
Sometimes the initial tests don’t provide enough information for a complete diagnosis and more tests may be needed. These include cardiac catheterization and angiography, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and CT scanning, Holter recording and stress testing.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
- Chest X-rays
- Echocardiogram
- Cardiac Catheterization and Angiogram
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- CT (Computerized Tomography) of the Heart
- Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
Some patients have primary problems with their heart rhythm and require more testing. That are outlined below, and there is also helpful information in our Arrhythmias content area.
Heart Transplant in Adults
Associated Conditions
Keeping Your Heart Healthy
Physical Activity and Exercise
Birth Control and Pregnancy
Genetic Counseling
Insurance, Legal Issues and Advance Directives
Endocarditis Prophylaxis Information
Heart & Stroke Encyclopedia
View our Heart & Stroke Encyclopedia to find simple definitions of complex terms.
