How does CCHD screening work?

To screen for CCHD, a doctor or nurse uses a device called a pulse oximeter. The device has a sensor that attaches to a baby’s right hand and either foot. It shines light through the skin to measure oxygen in the blood. The screening process is painless and happens at the bedside or in the nursery.

What is CHD critical?

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is the name given to specific congenital heart defects. These defects in the heart occur before birth, cause blood to flow in an abnormal pattern, and may lead to blockage of blood flow throughout the body.

What is pulse oximeter screening?

Pulse oximetry screening is used to detect Critical Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD) in infants. Sometimes called “pulse ox,” this painless, non-invasive test measures the amount of oxygen in the blood.

What is the most serious congenital heart disease?

Critical congenital heart defects (also called critical CHDs or critical congenital heart disease) are the most serious congenital heart defects. Babies with critical CHDs need surgery or other treatment within the first year of life. Without treatment, critical CHDs can cause serious health problems and death.

What is the most severe congenital heart defect?

Critical congenital heart defects (also called critical CHDs or critical congenital heart disease) are the most serious congenital heart defects. Babies with critical CHDs need surgery or other treatment within the first year of life.

What causes CHD pregnancy?

Some babies have heart defects because of changes in their individual genes or chromosomes. CHDs also are thought to be caused by a combination of genes and other factors, such as things in the environment, the mother’s diet, the mother’s health conditions, or the mother’s medication use during pregnancy.

Can a baby survive congenital heart defect?

Survival. About 97% of babies born with a non-critical CHD are expected to survive to one year of age. About 95% of babies born with a non-critical CHD are expected to survive to 18 years of age. Thus, the population of people with CHDs is growing.

What is the life expectancy of a person with congenital heart disease?

About 75% of babies born with a critical CHD are expected to survive to one year of age. About 69% of babies born with critical CHDs are expected to survive to 18 years of age.