Diagnostics of Heart Failure Development in Children with Congenital Ventricular Septal Defect After Surgery

Background: Congenital ventricular septal defect (VSD) is one of the most common congenital heart defects in pediatric populations. Surgical correction significantly improves outcomes; however, postoperative heart failure (HF) remains a crucial complication affecting morbidity and long-term prognosis. Objective: To evaluate diagnostic strategies for detecting heart failure development in children following surgical repair of VSD. Methods: We conducted a review of diagnostic modalities including clinical scores, biomarkers, echocardiographic parameters, and advanced imaging. A proposed diagnostic flowchart is presented. Results: Early detection of HF relies on a combination of clinical assessment, laboratory biomarkers (e.g., NT-proBNP), and imaging methods such as echocardiography. Novel algorithms improve sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion: A structured diagnostic pathway enhances early recognition and allows timely intervention to reduce adverse outcomes.