[Diagnostic sequence for congenital cardiopathies]

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Developmental Biology
• Medical Terminology

Context:

• Congenital heart malformations present complex diagnostic challenges due to inconsistent and confusing nomenclature.
• Previous classification efforts based on cardiac segment relations and morphology have led to ambiguity.
• Standardized terminology is crucial for accurate diagnosis, communication, and research in pediatric cardiology.

Purpose:

• To propose a novel, sequential diagnostic nomenclature for congenital heart malformations.
• To establish a classification system prioritizing cardiac segment connections over relations.
• To provide parameters for classifying even complex cases like univentricular hearts and ambiguous atrial situs.

Summary:

• This paper presents a well-defined sequential diagnostic approach for congenital heart malformations.
• The proposed nomenclature emphasizes the connections between cardiac segments as the primary classification step.
• It facilitates the identification of associated defects and offers objective classification for challenging cases.

Impact:

• Aims to reduce confusion in congenital heart malformation terminology.
• Provides a more objective and comprehensive system for classifying diverse cardiac defects.
• Enhances clarity in clinical practice and research related to congenital heart disease.