05/05/2026

LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 5, 2026

23

T HE birth of a child is often marked by joy, but that moment can quickly shift to fear when a heart defect is diagnosed. In Malaysia today, advances in paediatric cardiology are changing that reality, turning what was once a devastating diagnosis into a journey shaped by treatment, monitoring and long-term care. Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects about one in 100 babies. However, improvements in imaging and interventional techniques mean more children are now able to survive into adulthood compared with previous decades. Heart conditions in children are broadly divided into two categories: congenital and acquired. Congenital conditions are present at birth and include acyanotic or “pink” heart defects, as well as cyanotic defects often referred to as “blue baby” conditions. These are typically detected soon after birth, especially when pulse oximetry screening is conducted and oxygen levels fall below 95%. Diagnosis is usually confirmed via echocardiography. More serious cyanotic defects, such as Tetralogy of Fallot, Transposition of the Great Arteries and Pulmonary Atresia, require early intervention and are often identified when a baby’s lips or extremities appear blue. Acquired heart conditions develop later and include Kawasaki disease, rheumatic valve disease and arrhythmias. These may present through symptoms such as prolonged fever, chest pain or fainting. Heart murmurs are often detected during examination, with echocardiograms used to confirm the diagnosis. Imaging heart with precise clarity Advancements in cardiac imaging play a critical role in improving diagnosis and treatment. Tools such as echocardiography, CT scans and MRI allow specialists to visualise the heart in 2D and 3D, as well as assess cardiac strain to evaluate how effectively each segment of the heart muscle contracts. This level of imaging requires specialised training, particularly in cross sectional imaging used to reconstruct and interpret complex heart structures. With these capabilities, clinicians are able to understand a child’s heart with greater accuracy and plan more targeted treatment. Newer technologies, including advanced CT imaging such as photo-counting CT, further enhance visualisation of small cardiac structures while taking radiation exposure into account, which is especially important in paediatric care. These developments support safer and more precise treatment planning. Certain congenital

Progress in paediatric cardiology offers parents hope Advances in technology and treatment are allowing children born with heart disease to live normal lives and giving parents a chance to prepare before their child is even born. – ALL PICS FROM 123RF

critical in improving long-term outcomes. Pre-birth preparation Malaysia has made significant progress in early detection through the use of foetal echocardiography. This allows heart defects to be identified during pregnancy, typically between 18 and 22 weeks. Early diagnosis gives parents time to prepare and enables doctors to plan for safe delivery and immediate intervention if required. This can have a significant impact on outcomes, particularly in more complex cases. Looking ahead The future of paediatric cardiology in Malaysia continues to evolve, with more specialists trained in advanced imaging and interventional techniques. These developments expand treatment options and improve the standard of care available to patients. At its core, progress in this field reflects a simple goal: ensuring children with heart conditions have the opportunity to grow, live actively and reach adulthood. As medical capabilities continue to advance, that goal is becoming increasingly achievable for families across the country. This article is contributed by Sunway Medical Centre consultant paediatrician and paediatric cardiologist Dr Lim Wooi Kok.

o Early detection, advanced imaging, minimally invasive treatment drastically improve outcomes for children born with congenital heart disease in Malaysia

children face feeding difficulties, slower growth and frequent hospital visits. Daily activities can demand more energy, especially in infants who expend significant effort simply to breathe and feed. Parents are often required to manage medications, attend regular follow ups and balance caregiving with work and financial responsibilities. The journey extends beyond medical care, placing emotional and logistical demands on families. Feelings of guilt are common among parents, although most CHD cases occur due to genetic factors or by chance. Risk increases slightly to between 2% and 3% if a parent or sibling is affected. Support systems, including guidance from healthcare professionals and connections with other families, play a key role in helping parents navigate these challenges. With proper care, many children with CHD are able to lead active and fulfilling lives. Continuous care Congenital heart conditions require lifelong monitoring. Patients often continue seeing the same cardiologist into adulthood, creating long-term relationships that support continuity of care. Ongoing management includes regular screenings, adherence to treatment plans and preventive measures such as vaccinations to reduce the risk of complications. Early intervention, combined with consistent follow-up, remains

recovery periods required for open-heart surgery. Post-treatment care remains essential, particularly maintaining good oral hygiene and following endocarditis prevention guidelines to protect long-term heart health. Lifelong support for families Caring for a child with CHD requires long-term commitment. Many

conditions, including Atrial Septal Defect, Patent Ductus Arteriosus and Ventricular Septal Defect, can now be treated through percutaneous interventions. These minimally invasive procedures are performed using a catheter inserted through the groin. Procedures typically take a few hours, with children often discharged within a few days, compared with longer

Future advancements in the field are likely

already on the way, ensuring better lives for children in Malaysia.