[Emergencies in pediatric cardiology]

Abstract

Congenital heart defects, not recognized antenatally, may lead to emergency situation immediately after birth. Fast recognition of clinical symptoms and the use of correct diagnostic tools are life-saving under these circumstances. Principles of cardio-pulmonary resuscitation will be presented in this article as well as diagnosis and treatment of hypoxemic spells, pulmonary hypertensive crises and (usually postoperative) pericardial effusion.