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A simple test that measures blood oxygen levels is the most accurate way of screening newborn babies for congenital heart defects, according to a new meta-analysis.

Analysis of 13 previous studies concluded that this screening method, called pulse oximetry, should be adopted internationally as part of routine tests on all newborns.

Expert screening before and after birth should provide a powerful strategy for identifying babies with serious heart defects

Professor Peter Weissberg, BHF's Medical Director said: “This analysis provides a compelling case for the wider use of pulse oximetry to screen for congenital heart defects in newborn babies. It is a simple, cheap and non-invasive test, but it will have to be supported by echocardiography services to determine the nature of the heart defect in babies with low oxygen levels.

“The BHF has funded specialist training for people who perform ultrasound scans during pregnancy, so they are able to spot congenital heart defects in the womb before the baby is born.

“The combination of this expert screening before and after birth should provide a powerful strategy for identifying babies with serious heart defects, so that they can be promptly treated.”

This study was published in The Lancet.