Diagnosis of Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart defects may be initially detected as abnormal heart sounds heard by your primary care physician through a stethoscope.  Additionally, other findings from physical exam, chest x-ray, or electrocardiograms can lead to the discovery of congenital heart defects.  

At Fletcher Allen, physicians who specialize in congenital heart disease will assess your problem and make a diagnosis.

Imaging Experts at Fletcher Allen

Imaging studies can help confirm the diagnosis. Our imaging experts offer a wide range of tests of diagnose your condition, and are specially trained in the latest technology and techniques.

Congenital Heart Disease Diagnosis Process

The process of diagnosis may involve the following:

Physical examination: A cardiologist specializing in congenital heart disease will listen to your heart and lungs and conduct a thorough examination.

Echocardiogram: This test evaluates the structure and function of the heart. It uses sound waves to produce an image of your heart in motion. An echocardiogram is a valuable tool for diagnosing atrial septal defects, as it can:

• Show whether other heart problems exist 
• Show the pattern and amount of blood flow through the defect    
• Determine the location, type, and size of the congenital heart defect 
• Help determine the best options to treat the defect, including catheter-based devices or open chest surgery

Electrocardiogram: This test, also called an ECG, records the electrical activity of your heart through electrodes attached to your skin. An ECG indicates any abnormal rhythms and stress to the heart.

Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging: These tests utilize x-ray radiation and magnetic resonance, respectively, to evaluate the structure and function of the heart. In addition, these tests can also image many of the other organs in the chest cavity, including the blood vessels. Many congenital heart defects are associated with other congenital defects in organs and the blood vessels, and cardiac CT or cardiac MR may be the best way to evaluate these.

Cardiac catheterization: Experts in Fletcher Allen’s Cardiovascular Catheterization Laboratories can make pressure and blood flow measurements with catheters inside your heart.  Additionally, they can inject a dye into the arteries of your heart through a catheter. The dye is visible on x-ray and video, helping to identify any blocked or narrowed arteries. This test gives valuable information about the structures inside the heart, and helps determine the best method to treat your congenital heart defect.