Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the most prevalent types of birth defects. One kid out of 100 is born with CHD worldwide, and the odds of a newborn surviving depend on the availability of proper treatment. Such newborns have a 95% probability of surviving if access to screening, early diagnosis, and treatment is provided.
Heart conditions in children can be present since birth or acquired. The severity of these anomalies can be from mild conditions requiring minimal intervention to complex defects that need surgery. The specialized specialty of pediatric cardiac care can save these tiny lives. Pediatric cardiac care refers to medical management, diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up care for children with congenital or acquired heart conditions. Newborns, infants, children, and adolescents are all included in this cardiac care.
The pediatric cardiology department at Aster CMI Hospital is popular for providing exceptional care for children with cardiac conditions. Led by experienced pediatric cardiologists, the Aster team specializes in several advanced treatments chosen to meet the unique needs of kids.
Among the premier services offered is pediatric cardiac catheterization, a minimally invasive procedure. It aims to diagnose and treat various heart conditions in children. Using modern technology and techniques, professional cardiologists perform catheter-based interventions to treat congenital heart defects, valve abnormalities, and structural heart problems. For this, catheters are navigated through blood vessels to the heart for precise evaluation and treatment. These procedures improve blood flow, repair defects, and restore cardiac function.
Aster Hospital uses modern and advanced equipment to ensure the best outcomes for children and follows stringent safety protocols. The Aster team provides compassionate, family-centered care and parental guidance through every step of the child's treatment journey.
Every year, Aster Hospitals treat several kids suffering from conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. The institute is renowned for its extensive cardiac surgical options that address congenital anomalies, trauma, and acquired cardiac disorders needing intervention. The best part is that at Aster, we strongly emphasize long-term results. Whether managing complex congenital heart conditions or providing routine cardiac screenings, trust Aster Hospitals for complete pediatric cardiac care.
Health Conditions Treated
- Congenital heart defects
- Atrial septal defect (ASD)
- Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
- Tetralogy of Fallot
- Pulmonary valve stenosis
- Aortic valve stenosis
- Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
- Coarctation of the aorta
- Ebstein's anomaly
- Arrhythmias
- Transposition of the great arteries
- Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).
FAQs
At Aster Hospitals we provide the highest quality of care and a transformative experience for all your healthcare needs. With our network of multi-speciality hospitals, specialised doctors, and world-class technology, we bring global standards of medical care to our patients.
What are the common heart conditions in children?
The most common heart conditions in children include:
- Congenital heart defects
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Acquired heart diseases
Are there non-surgical treatments for pediatric heart conditions?
Yes, there are several non-surgical treatments available for many pediatric heart conditions. Depending on the specific condition, its severity, and the child's overall health, non-surgical treatments can include:
- Medications
- Lifestyle modifications
- Catheter-based interventions
- Implantable devices
- Electrophysiology procedures
- Medical monitoring
Can children with heart conditions lead normal lives?
Yes. Most children with treated or managed heart conditions can lead active and normal lives. With proper medical care, lifestyle modifications, and regular monitoring, these children can engage in regular activities, like attending school, participating in sports (as advised by their healthcare team), and enjoying a good quality of life.
What is pediatric cardiac rehabilitation?
Pediatric cardiac rehabilitation involves structured exercise programs, education, and support for children undergoing heart surgeries or procedures. This helps them recover, regain strength, improve cardiovascular fitness, and adapt to their changed heart health. Healthcare professionals supervise the rehabilitation process and aim to enhance the child's overall well-being.
Can all congenital heart defects be treated in children?
Yes, most congenital heart defects can be treated effectively in children. However, the treatment plan depends on the type and severity of the defect. Some defects may require surgical correction, while others can be managed with less invasive procedures or medical interventions.
However, not all congenital heart defects can be cured entirely. Advances in medical technology and surgical techniques have greatly improved the outcomes for children with such congenital heart defects.
What is the importance of early intervention in pediatric cardiac care?
Early intervention in pediatric cardiac care is crucial because it can lead to better outcomes. Early intervention can minimize long-term damage to the heart and prevent developmental delays. It can also reduce the risk of serious complications and improve the child's overall health and well-being.
How often should children with heart conditions have check-ups?
The frequency of check-ups for children with heart conditions varies depending on the specific condition, severity, and treatment plan. In general, children with heart conditions may need more frequent follow-up visits initially after diagnosis or surgery. As their condition stabilizes, the frequency of check-ups may decrease. However, regular monitoring is essential to catch any changes or issues early.
How long does it take to recover after pediatric heart surgery?
The recovery time after pediatric heart surgery can vary significantly based on several factors, such as:
- Type of surgery
- Age of the child
- Overall health
- Surgical approach
Advanced Technology & Facilities
At Aster Hospitals, we employ advanced surgical techniques to treat challenging heart problems, thanks to our full-fledged cardiac OT suites with newer technologies that make it possible. Our pediatric cardiology team is renowned for its cutting-edge surgical approaches, top-notch operating abilities, and superior postoperative care. Let's have a glance at the diagnostic facilities available in pediatric cardiac care:
Pediatric echocardiogram
Also referred to as a "pediatric echo," this is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed images of a child's heart. Pediatric echo provides valuable information about the heart's structure, function, and blood flow.
Pediatric electrocardiogram ( ECG or EKG)
It is a simple and painless test used to record the electrical activity of a child's heart. Pediatric ECG helps identify irregular heart rhythms, abnormal electrical conduction, and potential heart conditions. This assists doctors in diagnosing and managing cardiac issues in children.
Cardiac catheterization
Cardiac catheterization in pediatrics is a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat various heart conditions. This allows pediatric doctors to perform intervention such as repairing heart defects, widening narrowed blood vessels, closing abnormal openings, and measuring pressures within the heart and blood vessels.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
MRI is a valuable diagnostic tool in pediatric cardiology. Pediatric cardiac MRI is particularly useful for evaluating complex congenital heart defects, assessing heart muscle function, and planning treatments.
The pediatric cardiac care team at Aster Hospitals offers interdisciplinary, evidence- based care and advanced therapy for infant and child heart problems. Pediatric cardiac surgeons and interventional cardiologists with extensive experience are in charge of the team. Pediatric cardiac surgeons operate on kids' hearts, fixing structural issues and congenital defects. Here are some treatments available at the Aster pediatric cardiac department.
PDA device closure
A patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a hole in the heart's two main blood arteries. It can be treated with a minimally invasive procedure called PDA device closure.
Coarctation stenting
This disorder causes the aorta, the major artery that distributes blood from the heart to the rest of the body, to constrict. A stent is placed during this surgery to expand the constrictive area of the aorta and improve blood flow.
ASD device closure
Atrial septal defects (ASDs) can be treated with a minimally invasive procedure called ASD device closure. This method uses an innovative device to close the hole without performing open heart surgery.
VSD device closure
Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are holes in the septum, the wall separating the heart's two ventricles. A minimally invasive procedure called VSD device closure helps fix this.
Balloon valvotomy
A surgical procedure called balloon valvotomy treats heart valve disorders, including aortic or pulmonary valve stenosis. It is considered less invasive than other conventional heart surgeries.
Transcatheter closure of sinus venosus ASD
This is another minimally invasive method that aids in treating sinus venosus ASD. The condition is characterized by an abnormal opening between the heart's upper chambers (atria). During this surgery, a stent is released via a catheter, effectively sealing ASD.
Transcatheter valve implantation
A defective or damaged aortic and pulmonary valve is replaced during this minimally invasive treatment.
Paravalvular leak closure
There may occasionally be minute gaps or leaks around the borders of a prosthetic heart valve surgery. A minimally invasive surgery called a paravalvular leak closure is performed to resolve valve leaks.
Pediatric pacemaker and ICD implantation and management
This entails surgically implanting devices to control cardiac rhythms. Pediatric cardiologists carry out this procedure for conditions such as bradycardia (slow heart rate) or certain arrhythmias.
Pediatric electrophysiology and arrhythmia services
These specialized medical procedures identify and treat children's cardiac rhythm problems, called arrhythmias. Pediatric electrophysiology may include techniques like cardiac mapping and electrophysiological studies (EPS) to locate aberrant electrical impulses.
