Overview
Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects nearly 1 in 100 newborns, making it the most common birth defect worldwide. Early diagnosis and a coordinated care plan are essential for giving every child the best chance at a full, active life. Our pediatric CHD program provides comprehensive evaluation, surgical planning, and long-term follow-up tailored to each child's unique anatomy.
Understanding Pediatric CHD
Pediatric congenital heart disease encompasses a wide spectrum of structural abnormalities — from simple atrial septal defects that may close on their own, to complex single-ventricle physiology requiring staged surgical palliation. Accurate diagnosis begins with fetal echocardiography and continues through advanced imaging such as cardiac MRI and CT angiography. Understanding the specific anatomy is the foundation of every treatment decision.
Treatment & Surgical Options
Modern surgical techniques and catheter-based interventions have transformed outcomes for children with CHD. Procedures range from minimally invasive device closures for septal defects to complex open-heart operations like the Norwood, Glenn, and Fontan procedures for single-ventricle hearts. Our team collaborates closely with cardiac surgeons, interventional cardiologists, and anesthesiologists to develop individualized surgical roadmaps.
Long-Term Monitoring
Children with repaired or palliated heart defects require lifelong cardiology follow-up. Residual lesions, arrhythmias, and ventricular dysfunction can emerge years after initial treatment. Structured surveillance protocols — including serial echocardiography, exercise testing, and biomarker monitoring — help detect complications early and guide timely intervention.
Family-Centered Support
A CHD diagnosis affects the entire family. We integrate psychosocial support, nutritional counseling, and developmental screening into every care plan. Families receive clear, jargon-free education about their child's condition, empowering them to advocate confidently across medical, school, and community settings.
Who Is This For?
- Infants and children diagnosed with congenital heart defects
- Families seeking a second opinion on a complex CHD diagnosis
- Children requiring pre-surgical evaluation or post-operative follow-up
- Pediatric patients needing transition planning toward adult CHD care