Neonatology and Pediatrics

Screening for Congenital Heart Defects

Screening for congenital heart defects (CHDs) is an essential component of newborn care, supporting early detection and timely management of potentially life-threatening conditions. This session explores pulse oximetry screening within the first 24–48 hours of life, including oxygen saturation interpretation, follow-up echocardiography, and strategies to reduce false-positive results. The role of prenatal screening, family history, physical examination, and fetal echocardiography in high-risk pregnancies will also be discussed. Case-based discussions will highlight common CHDs, including Tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, and coarctation of the aorta. Emphasis will be placed on early diagnosis, timely surgical or catheter-based intervention, and universal screening approaches to improve neonatal survival and long-term outcomes.