Congenital Mitral Valve Anomalies

Diagnosis

To diagnose congenital heart disease in adults, a healthcare professional examines you and listens to your heart with a stethoscope. You may be asked about your symptoms, medical history, and family history of heart disease.

Tests

Tests are done to evaluate the heart’s function and to rule out other conditions that cause similar symptoms.

Tests used to diagnose or confirm congenital heart disease in adults include:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity to detect irregular rhythms.

• Chest X-ray: Shows the size and shape of the heart and whether fluid is present in the lungs.

• Pulse oximetry: Measures oxygen levels in the blood to identify potential heart or lung issues.

• Echocardiogram: Uses sound waves to create moving images of the heart and its blood flow. A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) may be used for a detailed internal view of the heart and aorta.

• Exercise stress test: Evaluates how the heart responds to physical activity, either through exercise or medication.

• Heart MRI: Produces 3D images of the heart for precise measurement of its chambers and structure.

• Cardiac catheterization: Involves inserting a thin tube into a blood vessel to examine heart function and blood flow. Some heart defects can also be treated during this procedure.

Treatment

Treatment for congenital heart disease in adults depends on the specific defect, its severity, and any related symptoms. Some mild cases may only require regular monitoring, while others need medication or surgery.

Medications

Certain medications help the heart function more effectively or prevent complications. They may include:

• Medicines to improve heart function

• Drugs to prevent blood clots

• Medications to control irregular heart rhythms

Surgeries and Other Procedures

Some adults may need medical devices or surgery to manage congenital heart disease.

• Implantable heart devices such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) can help regulate heart rhythm.

• Catheter-based treatments repair certain defects without open-heart surgery by inserting flexible tubes through blood vessels.

• Open-heart surgery may be necessary if catheter procedures are not suitable.

• Heart transplant may be considered when the heart is severely damaged or untreatable.

Follow-up Care

Lifelong monitoring is essential, even for those who had successful surgery in childhood. Adults with congenital heart disease may develop complications over time. Regular follow-up with a congenital cardiologist helps detect and manage problems early.