Exams and Tests

Several tests can be used to help determine whether a baby or child has a congenital heart disease. These may include:

Fetal echocardiogram (during pregnancy): This test shows moving pictures of a baby's heart and how it is working as early as 16-18 weeks into pregnancy. It is usually used if congenital heart disease runs in your family, or if there are other factors that make a heart problem more likely.

Pulse oximetry: This simple and painless test measures how much oxygen is in the baby's blood. In many states, it is a standard screening test for newborns to help detect possible problems.

After a full physical exam and if a heart issue is suspected, other tests may be ordered for the baby or child and may include:

• Echocardiogram
• ECG
• Chest X-ray
• Cardiac catheterization
• Cardiac stress test

A pediatric or fetal cardiologist is in the best position to diagnose a congenital heart defect and recommend treatment.