1) Congenital heart disease (CHD) refers to defects present at birth that affect the structure and function of the heart. Causes are mostly unknown, though genetics play a role in some cases. 2) Statistics on CHD from Alder Hey Children's Hospital in 2003 show that around 1 in 120 births have some form of CHD, ranging from mild to severe defects requiring multiple operations and lifelong treatment. Common defects include Ventricular Septal Defects (VSD), Atrial Septal Defects (ASD), and Tetralogy of Fallot. 3) Treatment for CHD depends on the specific defect but may involve drug therapy, catheter procedures to implant devices, or

1. CONGENITAL HEART DISEASE Kevin Jones Senior Chief Technician Alder hey Childrens Hospital

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