Congenital heart diseases with excessive pulmonary blood flow.

Abstract

Congenital heart diseases (CHDs) associated with excessive pulmonary blood flow constitute a major group of cardiovascular abnormalities encountered in pediatric practice. These defects are characterized by left-to-right shunting of blood, resulting in increased pulmonary circulation, pulmonary vascular congestion, and volume overload of the heart chambers. Common lesions include ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, patent ductus arteriosus, and atrioventricular septal defect. If left untreated, these conditions may lead to pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and irreversible pulmonary vascular disease. Advances in diagnostic imaging, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery have significantly improved patient outcomes. This review summarizes the pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and contemporary management strategies for congenital heart diseases associated with excessive pulmonary blood flow.