What is the gold standard for diagnosing congenital heart disease?

The gold standard for diagnosing congenital heart disease is the echocardiogram. This non-invasive imaging technique provides real-time visualization of the heart's structure and function, allowing for detailed assessment of any congenital anomalies present. The echocardiogram can evaluate abnormalities such as septal defects, valve malformations, and blood flow patterns within the heart and great vessels, offering critical information that informs clinical decision-making.

Additionally, echocardiography has the advantage of being widely available, safe, and effective without the need for ionizing radiation. The use of Doppler technology within echocardiograms enhances the ability to assess blood flow dynamics, further refining the diagnosis of congenital heart disease. Given these benefits, echocardiography is preferred over other imaging modalities in this context.