What is the primary goal of surgical intervention for congenital heart defects?

The primary goal of surgical intervention for congenital heart defects is to restore normal hemodynamics. This involves correcting the structural abnormalities in the heart that disrupt the normal flow of blood. By addressing these defects, surgeons aim to ensure that the heart can efficiently pump blood to the lungs and the rest of the body, which is crucial for maintaining adequate oxygenation and perfusion of organs.

Restoring normal hemodynamics is essential not just for immediate health but also for the long-term well-being of the patient. If blood flow is not adequately managed, it can lead to complications such as heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or growth and developmental delays, particularly in pediatric patients. Therefore, surgical solutions focus primarily on correcting the anatomical issues that lead to these hemodynamic problems.

Other potential goals of surgical intervention, such as enhancing physical appearance or reducing recovery time, are secondary to this primary objective. While managing symptoms can be important in certain contexts, the fundamental aim remains to achieve a functional improvement in the cardiovascular system.