Heart specialists that are also trained to diagnose and treat infants and children that suffer from congenital heart disease and other heart disease are known as Paediatric cardiologists. They are well trained to deal with children and understand the emotional needs of a child. Paediatric Cardiology deals with developing diseases in children. Paediatric cardiologists are experts in heart disease, complex diagnostics, surgeries, and other medical problems. They work closely with a wide range of specialists as a part of a multidisciplinary team in order to provide best treatment for the child.
Diseases treated by Paediatric Cardiologists:
- Fetal cardiac abnormalities
- Congenital heart disease
- Heart murmurs
- Cardiovascular collapse in infants
- Hole in the heart.
- Cardiac failure in infants
- Cyanosis
- Fetal cardiac abnormalities
- Neonatal abnormalities
- Arrhythmias
Diagnosis:
- Genetic testing: Genetic testing is performed while the fetus is still in the womb. A blood sample is collected for genetic testing; it helps in knowing any prior family genetic history of heart diseases. Early detection or signs of the heart disease can help the doctor to treat the disease timely.
- Fetal echocardiogram: In this test with the help of ultrasound, a 3d image of the fetus is made that helps to keep the heart in motion. The doctor is able to see the valves, blood vessels, arteries properly and can diagnose any abnormality.
- Electrocardiogram: It is also called an ECG; it can be performed on a child after the birth. This test helps in diagnosing the rhythm of the heart that helps in diagnosing disease such as arrhythmia.
- Cardiac catheterization: It uses an instrument called catheter which is inserted through the blood vessel in the arm or leg to reach the heart. It consists of a dye inside it that helps in visualizing the image of the heart from inside. It is a bit complicated procedure but helps to see the blockage or abnormality in the heart.
- MRI and CT scan: Magnetic imaging and computed tomography scans provide a detailed picture of the heart that helps in diagnosing a lot of heart related problems.
Treatment:
The treatment for paediatric heart defects depends on the specificity of the condition of the heart and its severity. Certain defects need immediate surgery and some can be treated with proper medications, exercise and a particular diet. A part from different medication there are other surgical methods that are required to treat the heart disease, some of it include:
- Heart surgery: When there is a hole in the heart or valves, then there is a need for immediate surgery. Doctors then prefer open heart surgery and minimally invasive surgery to treat the defect.
- Heart transplant: A heart transplant is a serious and very complicated surgery that requires absolute precision. It is required when no other option is left for the patient.
- Cardiac catheterization: Congenital heart disease is repaired using thin tubes called catheters. It is also used to repair holes in the heart or narrowed vessels.
Why Eternal Hospital?
At Eternal Hospital, we have a highly qualified and dedicated team of specialized paediatric cardiologists who are always committed to providing the latest and most advanced medical care to all our patients. Being a trusted name in healthcare, we act compassionately while ensuring confidentiality to those who need it. We have set high standards in patient-centric premium care and outstanding patient safety, and exceptional maintenance in a timely manner. In addition, we adhere to the use of up-to-the-minute innovations to offer state-of-the-art treatments to our patients with unparalleled results.
