FAQ’s
Frequently asked questions
Here are the most FAQ (frequently asked questions) covering a range of topics, including pediatric cardiac imaging, congenital and acquired heart conditions, symptoms, diagnosis, heart failure, pulmonary arterial hypertension, and the care of adults with congenital heart disease.
What is pediatric cardiac imaging?
Pediatric cardiac imaging is a vital service that uses advanced imaging technologies to diagnose and manage heart conditions in children, including infants, toddlers, and teenagers.
Why is cardiac imaging important for children?
It helps doctors visualize the heart in motion, detect abnormalities, and plan life-saving treatments for both congenital and acquired heart conditions.
What are congenital heart defects (CHDs)?
Congenital heart defects are structural heart problems that a child is born with.
What are acquired heart conditions?
Acquired heart conditions are heart problems that develop in a child after they are born. They can be caused by infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or lifestyle factors.
What is an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
An ASD is a "hole in the heart" in the wall (septum) that separates the two upper chambers (atria).
What is a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)?
A VSD is a hole in the wall (septum) that separates the two lower chambers (ventricles).
What are some common symptoms of heart conditions in babies and infants?
Common symptoms include difficulty feeding, poor weight gain, rapid or difficult breathing, and a bluish tint to the skin, lips, or nails (cyanosis).
What is Heart Failure in children?
Heart failure in children means the heart is not pumping blood efficiently enough to meet the body's needs. It is different from heart failure in adults.
What is Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension (PAH)?
PAH is a type of high blood pressure that specifically affects the arteries in the lungs, making it difficult for the heart to pump blood through them.
What is the role of catheterization techniques in special heart interventions?
Catheterization techniques involve inserting a tiny, flexible tube (catheter) into a blood vessel and guiding it to the heart to fix problems, often avoiding open-heart surgery.
How is ASD typically diagnosed?
It is often detected by a heart murmur during a physical exam and is confirmed with an echocardiogram.
Can an ASD close on its own?
Yes, many small ASDs may be asymptomatic and can close on their own.
What is echocardiography?
Echocardiography (Echo) is a go-to imaging tool, often the first step in diagnosing pediatric heart issues, that uses sound waves to create images of the heart.
How does an ASD affect blood flow?
Oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium can flow through the hole into the right atrium, making the right side of the heart and the lungs work harder.
What is Congenital Muscular Dystrophy (CMD)?
CMD is a group of rare, inherited genetic conditions that cause muscle weakness and degeneration from birth or early infancy.
How does CMD affect the heart?
CMD can lead to cardiomyopathy, where the heart muscle weakens and becomes unable to pump blood effectively.
What are the symptoms of a large VSD?
Symptoms can include a loud heart murmur, shortness of breath, difficulty feeding, poor weight gain, and a fast heart rate.
What is Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD)?
RHD is a serious, long-term complication of untreated or inadequately treated strep throat or scarlet fever.
What are some causes of heart failure in children?
It can be caused by congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathy, or viral infections.
What is Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD)?
ACHD refers to the lifelong medical care and management needed by individuals born with a heart defect who have reached adulthood.
What is the prognosis for children with heart failure?
While serious, many children with heart failure can be effectively managed with medical care and treatments, including cardiac transplant if necessary.
What are some common acquired heart conditions in children?
Common acquired heart conditions include Rheumatic Heart Disease and Kawasaki Disease.
What are some symptoms of heart conditions in older children and teenagers?
Symptoms can include shortness of breath with activity, chest pain, fainting or dizziness, and palpitations.
How is PAH diagnosed in children?
The diagnosis of PAH involves a comprehensive evaluation, including a physical exam, echocardiogram, and sometimes more specialized tests like a cardiac catheterization.
What is a cardiac catheterization?
A cardiac catheterization is a specialized procedure where a thin tube is inserted into a blood vessel and guided to the heart to perform diagnostic tests or interventional procedures.
What are the different types of VSDs?
VSDs can occur in different parts of the ventricular septum, including perimembranous (most common), muscular, inlet, and conoventricular.
How does heart failure in children affect the body?
It can lead to organs not getting enough oxygen and nutrients, fluid buildup, and the heart beating faster or enlarging to compensate.
What is the treatment for a large ASD?
Larger ASDs may require closure, either via a catheter-based procedure or open-heart surgery.
What are some common acquired heart conditions in children?
Common acquired heart conditions include Rheumatic Heart Disease and Kawasaki Disease.
What are some special heart tests for children?
Special tests include Holter monitoring, exercise stress testing, and cardiac MRI, which provide a detailed look at heart function and rhythm.
How does PAH affect the heart?
The right side of the heart has to work harder to push blood through narrowed pulmonary arteries, which can lead to right-sided heart failure over time.
What is a Holter monitor?
A Holter monitor is a small, portable device that records the heart's electrical activity continuously for 24 to 48 hours.
What is the purpose of an exercise stress test?
An exercise stress test evaluates how the heart and blood vessels respond to physical activity.
What is the importance of transitional care for ACHD patients?
Transitional care is important to ensure a seamless transition from pediatric to adult care, providing specialized, lifelong care for individuals with CHD.
What kind of expertise is needed for PAH in children?
Due to its complexity, PAH in children requires expert care from a team of dedicated child heart doctors who specialize in this condition.
What is the primary concern for a child heart doctor regarding CMD?
The main concern is the potential for cardiomyopathy, which is a disease of the heart muscle that makes it difficult to pump blood.
How does an ASD differ from a VSD?
An ASD is a hole between the upper chambers (atria), while a VSD is a hole between the lower chambers (ventricles).
What is the "failure to thrive" symptom in infants?
"Failure to thrive" refers to poor weight gain or a baby not growing as expected, which can be a sign of a heart condition.
What is a heart murmur?
A heart murmur is a whooshing sound heard with a stethoscope, which can be a symptom of a heart defect like an ASD or VSD.
What is a cardiac MRI?
A cardiac MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the heart's structure and function.
What are the different types of interventions for children?
Special heart interventions include minimally invasive procedures using catheters, such as angioplasty, stenting, and device closures.
What are the advantages of minimally invasive procedures?
Minimally invasive procedures often result in smaller incisions, less pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
Can an adult with a congenital heart defect live a full life?
Yes, thanks to advances in pediatric cardiology, more children with congenital heart defects are living full lives into adulthood than ever before.
What does a physician look for during a physical exam to detect a heart condition?
During a physical exam, a doctor may listen for a heart murmur, check for unusual pulses, or signs of poor circulation, such as a bluish tint to the skin.
How do pediatric cardiologists manage PAH in children?
They use advanced expertise, compassionate support, and innovative treatments to manage the unique challenges of PAH in children.
What are the main goals of a cardiac imaging service for children?
The goals are to provide accurate and advanced diagnoses in the gentlest way possible, ensuring a child's comfort and well-being.
What is the difference between congenital and acquired heart conditions?
Congenital conditions are present at birth, while acquired conditions develop after a child is born.
How do acquired heart conditions develop in children?
They can appear due to infections, inflammation, autoimmune diseases, or lifestyle factors.
What are some symptoms of PAH?
Symptoms can include shortness of breath and fatigue due to reduced oxygen delivery to the body.
What is the role of a child heart doctor in caring for a child with CMD?
A child heart doctor provides expert care and information regarding any heart-related challenges a child with CMD might face.
Why do children with heart failure experience poor growth?
Poor growth is a result of their organs not getting enough oxygen and nutrients due to the heart's inefficient pumping.
Can special heart interventions be performed on newborns?
Yes, these minimally invasive procedures are often suitable for children of all ages, including newborns, depending on the condition.
How can parents help with the diagnosis of a heart condition?
Parents can help by recognizing and reporting persistent or concerning symptoms, such as difficulty feeding, unusual breathing, or a bluish tint to the skin.
What is the goal of a pediatric cardiologist?
The goal is to help a child with a heart condition lead a full and active life through expert, compassionate care.
What is the significance of a cardiac MRI?
It provides a comprehensive view of the heart's structure, function, and blood flow patterns.
What is an example of an acquired heart condition?
An example is Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), which can be a complication of untreated strep throat.
What are the different types of PAH?
PAH in children can be caused by various underlying issues, and understanding the specific type is crucial for effective treatment.
How can a child with heart failure be managed?
Management includes early diagnosis, effective medical management, and, if needed, advanced treatments such as cardiac transplant.
What is the effect of an ASD on the lungs?
An ASD causes extra blood to be pumped to the lungs, making them work harder.
What is the impact of VSD on the heart?
A VSD increases blood flow to the lungs and makes the heart work harder.
Can congenital heart conditions be detected during pregnancy?
Yes, some congenital heart defects can be detected during fetal development through specialized prenatal imaging.
What is the importance of having a dedicated team of child heart doctors?
A dedicated team provides specialized knowledge and compassionate care tailored to the unique needs of children with heart conditions.
How do doctors ensure a child's comfort during special heart tests?
Doctors prioritize the child's comfort and explain everything in a way that is easy for both the child and parent to understand.
What is an arrhythmia in children?
An arrhythmia is an irregular heartbeat that may be too fast, too slow, or follow an unusual pattern. It happens when the heart's electrical signals malfunction.
How does a normal heart beat?
The heart has a natural pacemaker called the sinus node, which sends electrical signals in a precise pattern to make the heart contract and pump blood.
What is Supraventricular Tachycardia (SVT)?
SVT is the most common type of arrhythmia in children, causing sudden episodes of a very fast heart rate.
What is Ventricular Tachycardia?
Ventricular Tachycardia is a more serious, but less common, arrhythmia that starts in the lower chambers of the heart and may require emergency care.
What is Bradycardia?
Bradycardia is a slower-than-normal heart rate. It can be harmless or indicate a problem with the heart's electrical system, especially after surgery.
What are PACs and PVCs?
PACs (Premature Atrial Contractions) and PVCs (Premature Ventricular Contractions) are extra heartbeats that occur early. They are common and often do not require treatment.
What is Long QT Syndrome?
Long QT Syndrome is a genetic condition that makes the heart susceptible to dangerous rhythms, especially during stress or exercise.
What are some causes of arrhythmias in children?
Causes can include congenital heart defects, infections, genetic conditions, or complications following heart surgery.
What is a Fetal Echocardiogram?
A Fetal Echocardiogram is a safe, detailed ultrasound of an unborn baby's heart, typically performed between 18–24 weeks of pregnancy, to check for abnormalities.
What is Fetal Cardiology?
Fetal Cardiology is a specialized medical field focused on detecting, monitoring, and managing heart problems in unborn babies during pregnancy.
When is Fetal Cardiology recommended?
It is recommended if a routine ultrasound shows possible heart irregularities, there is a family history of congenital heart disease, or the mother has certain medical conditions like diabetes or lupus.
What conditions can Fetal Cardiology identify?
It can identify congenital heart defects, fetal arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and cardiomyopathies (diseases of the heart muscle).
What is Interventional Cardiology?
Interventional cardiology uses minimally invasive, catheter-based techniques to diagnose and treat heart problems without the need for open-heart surgery.
How does Interventional Cardiology differ from traditional cardiology?
Interventional cardiology focuses on minimally invasive methods using catheters, while traditional cardiology may rely more on medications or open surgeries.
What is a Balloon Valvuloplasty?
Balloon Valvuloplasty is a procedure used to open narrowed heart valves in babies and children.
What is Atrial Septostomy?
Atrial Septostomy is a life-saving procedure that improves blood oxygen levels in newborns with specific congenital heart defects.
What is Ductal Stenting?
Ductal Stenting keeps the ductus arteriosus open to maintain vital blood flow in newborns with complex heart issues.
How are holes in the heart closed without surgery?
Holes in the heart, such as ASD, VSD, and PDA, can be closed using devices of multiple sizes through a catheter-based procedure.
What is a Transcatheter Pacemaker implantation?
If a child has a heart block, a pacemaker can be implanted through a transcatheter procedure to regulate their heart rhythm.
What are the advantages of interventional cardiology for children?
Interventional cardiology procedures are minimally invasive, which can reduce trauma and lead to a faster recovery compared to open-heart surgery.
What is a Holter monitor?
A Holter monitor is a portable device worn for 24 hours or longer to continuously record the heart's electrical activity and track intermittent arrhythmias.
What is an Electrophysiology Study (EPS)?
An EPS is an advanced test that maps the heart's electrical system from the inside to pinpoint the source of arrhythmias before a procedure like ablation.
Can interventional cardiology procedures be performed on newborns?
Yes, interventional cardiology is especially crucial for newborns with critical heart conditions who may need immediate or early intervention.
What is Cardiomyopathy?
Cardiomyopathy is a disease of the heart muscle that affects how well the heart works.
What are the symptoms of arrhythmias in infants?
Symptoms in infants can include poor feeding, rapid breathing, pale or bluish skin, and extreme fussiness.
What are the symptoms of arrhythmias in older children?
Symptoms in older children and teens may include fluttering in the chest, fatigue, fainting, dizziness, or chest pain.
What is a Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)?
A PDA is a heart defect where a vessel connecting the aorta and pulmonary artery fails to close after birth.
How can fetal cardiology help with delivery planning?
By identifying heart issues early, doctors can plan safer deliveries and immediate treatment post-birth, leading to better outcomes for the baby.
What is Transcatheter Valve Replacement?
Transcatheter Valve Replacement is a minimally invasive alternative to valve surgery, especially beneficial for growing children who might otherwise need repeated surgeries.
What is the significance of early detection of heart issues in a fetus?
Early detection allows doctors and parents to prepare for the safest possible delivery and care plan, often leading to better outcomes.
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