Advanced treatment for single ventricle defects in babies
A single ventricle defect is a form of congenital heart disease, meaning a heart condition that children are born with. In babies with single ventricle defects, one of the lower heart chambers (ventricles) hasn't developed correctly, which prevents one or both ventricles from properly pumping oxygen-rich blood to the body. Single ventricle defects are serious conditions, but they are often spotted before birth and can be treated with a series of three operations.
At the Children’s Hospital of New York, our experts have a reputation as leaders in pediatric cardiac surgery. Our team is highly skilled in all three procedures used to treat single ventricle defects, with a track record of some of the best outcomes in the country.
About Our Program
The Single Ventricle Program at NewYork-Presbyterian Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital consists of a multidisciplinary group of experts who provide specialized care for babies with single ventricle heart disease. Our dedicated team includes pediatric cardiologists, pediatric cardiac nurse practitioners, pediatric cardiac nutritionists, pediatric cardiac interventionalists, and pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons. Together, we work with your child's cardiologist and sub-specialists to coordinate their care, management, and surgical planning.
Infants are often at higher risk for complications during the period of time between the first and second surgical procedures (the "interstage" period). A close, comprehensive follow up plan can help monitor your baby’s nutrition, growth, and development. Our team will work to identify and address any concerning symptoms such as low oxygen or breathing issues as early as possible.
Through in-person visits, telehealth, and other cutting-edge technologies, our experts can closely monitor your child and respond quickly if needed. We also provide comprehensive family support and training so that you’ll feel confident in monitoring your baby when it’s time for them to go home.
Neurodevelopment support
We are dedicated to setting up high-risk babies for success as early on as possible. Part of caring for single ventricle patients includes connecting families with specialists and resources to support their neurodevelopment.
Neurodevelopmental follow-up begins when children are about 3 months old (or after they undergo the Glenn procedure ). We provide patients with several sessions, typically focused on motor skills and cognitive assessments, and work with your family to explore therapies that may benefit your child’s development. Your child may work with a team of experts including neonatologists, specialized nurse practitioners, occupational therapists, developmental behavior pediatricians and developmental psychologists. Our team can also help you navigate center-based therapies, early Intervention and transition to school.
Fontan survivorship program for adults
Even with surgical intervention, children born with single ventricle defects will often face health complications as they grow up. Lifelong follow-up care is important to ensure that there’s enough blood flow throughout the body.
NewYork-Presbyterian/Columbia University Irving Medical Center is home to the Single Ventricle Fontan Program at the Schneeweiss Adult Congenital Heart Center. This program provides liver, lung, and kidney screening, novel therapies, and early detection services to support your child through adulthood.
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