Pediatric Cardiac Surgery

When your child needs heart surgery, you want to know they’re in the very best hands. At Banner Children’s, our pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons specialize in performing delicate procedures on infants, children and adolescents with heart and chest conditions. 

Our team combines advanced surgical techniques with compassionate, family-centered care to help your child heal and thrive. From diagnosis through recovery, we’re here to support your family every step of the way. 

What is pediatric cardiothoracic surgery? 

Pediatric cardiothoracic surgery focuses on treating congenital (present at birth) and acquired (developed later) heart and chest conditions that require surgical repair. Because a child’s heart and body are still growing, pediatric surgery requires specialized training, equipment and techniques designed just for kids. 

Our experienced surgeons work closely with pediatric cardiologists, critical care specialists and anesthesiologists to provide coordinated, seamless care - from the operating room to the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU). 

Conditions we treat 

Pediatric cardiothoracic surgery may be recommended for a variety of heart conditions, including: 

• Congenital heart defects, such as holes in the heart (ASD, VSD) or valve malformations 
• Valve diseases, including narrowing (stenosis) or leaking (regurgitation) valves 
• Abnormal blood vessel connections or narrowing 
• Defects in the heart chambers or walls 
• Complex single-ventricle defects, such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome 
• Acquired heart conditions, such as infections or trauma 
• Chest wall deformities and other thoracic conditions 

Every case is unique. Our specialists carefully evaluate your child’s condition to recommend the safest and most effective surgical plan. 

Types of pediatric heart surgeries 

At Banner Children’s, our cardiothoracic surgeons perform a wide range of procedures, including: 

• Open-heart surgery: Used to repair structural heart defects such as septal defects or valve abnormalities. 
• Minimally invasive and hybrid procedures: Smaller incisions and shorter recovery times for certain conditions. 
• Valve repair or replacement: To restore proper heart function. 
• Reconstruction of arteries and veins: To correct abnormal blood flow between the heart and lungs. 
• Heart defect repair for infants: Specialized procedures for newborns with complex congenital heart defects. 
• ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation): Life-saving support for children whose heart or lungs need time to heal after surgery. 

The surgical process 

Your child’s surgery will be customized to their condition and overall health. While every procedure is unique, most surgical experiences follow these general steps: 

1. Preoperative evaluation: Your child will undergo imaging, lab tests and medical review to plan the safest approach. 
2. Surgery: Our team of pediatric specialists uses advanced technology and precise techniques to perform the operation. 
3. Recovery and monitoring: After surgery, your child will recover in a specialized pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) with continuous monitoring and support. 
4. Rehabilitation and follow-up: Once home, your family will receive detailed care instructions and continued follow-up with your pediatric cardiology team. 

Family-centered care and support 

We know that heart surgery can feel overwhelming for families. That’s why our approach focuses on compassion, communication and comfort. 

Our care team provides: 

• Child life specialists to help children cope with fear or anxiety 
• Social workers and family support services 
• Clear, ongoing communication before and after surgery 
• Education and resources to help families prepare for recovery at home 

Your child’s care plan is designed not just for medical success, but for emotional well-being - because healing is about the whole child, not just the procedure. 

Why choose Banner Children’s for pediatric heart surgery 

At Banner Children’s, we bring together a team of highly skilled surgeons, cardiologists, nurses and therapists who specialize in children’s heart care. 

We provide: 

• Advanced technology and minimally invasive techniques 
• Multidisciplinary expertise from diagnosis through recovery 
• Pediatric cardiac intensive care designed just for children 
• Comprehensive follow-up to support long-term heart health 

Our goal is to give every child the best possible outcome - and every family peace of mind. 

Find pediatric cardiothoracic surgery care near you 

If your child needs heart surgery, you don’t have to face it alone. 

Our team at Banner Children’s offers advanced care, experienced surgeons and the compassionate support your family deserves. 

Find a Banner Children’s location offering pediatric cardiothoracic surgery near you.