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Pediatric Heart Conditions

At Banner Children’s, we’re here for children — and because of children. Whether you’ve just learned your child has a heart condition or have known for some time, you and your family are not alone. Our kid-connected experts are here to support and guide you and your child every step of the way. 

Expert diagnosis and treatment for pediatric heart conditions

We treat a wide range of heart conditions in children, from common issues to complex congenital heart defects. Our team works to provide an accurate diagnosis so your child can get the right care -  whether that’s treatment, monitoring or reassurance that no intervention is needed. 

Heart rhythm problems 

These conditions affect how your child’s heart beats. Some rhythms may be too fast, too slow or irregular, which can impact how well the heart pumps blood. 

  • Abnormal heartbeat (dysrhythmia) 
  • Bacterial endocarditis 

Structural heart defects 

These are problems with the heart’s structure that are often present at birth (congenital). They can affect how blood flows through the heart and body. 

  • Aortic stenosis 
  • Atrial septal defect (ASD) 
  • Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD or AV canal) 
  • Coarctation of the aorta 
  • Double outlet right ventricle 
  • Ebstein anomaly 
  • Heterotaxy syndromes (polysplenia and asplenia) 
  • Hypoplastic left heart syndrome 
  • Hypoplastic right heart syndrome 
  • Interrupted aortic arch 
  • Mitral stenosis 
  • Mitral regurgitation 
  • Partial anomalous pulmonary venous return 
  • Patent ductus arteriosus 
  • Pulmonary atresia 
  • Pulmonary stenosis 
  • Single ventricle 
  • Tetralogy of Fallot 
  • Total anomalous pulmonary venous return 
  • Transposition of the great arteries 
  • Tricuspid atresia 
  • Truncus arteriosus 
  • Ventricular septal defect 

Heart muscle disorders 

These conditions affect the heart’s muscle, making it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively. 

  • Dilated cardiomyopathy 
  • Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy 
  • Restrictive cardiomyopathy 

Other cardiac conditions 

These are additional conditions that can affect the heart’s health, structure or blood vessels. 

Comprehensive fetal heart care 

If you’re an expectant mother and your baby has been diagnosed with a heart condition, our fetal heart team will work closely with our high-risk obstetrics team before your delivery. We’ll learn more about you and your baby’s condition, create an individualized care plan and answer your questions to help ease your concerns. Our goal is to keep you informed and supported before, during and after delivery. 

Why choose Banner Children’s for pediatric cardiac care 

For us, caring for kids is a privilege. Our compassionate staff is committed to: 

  • Providing the best care available today 
  • Using advanced technology for accurate diagnosis and treatment 
  • Offering emotional support for families throughout the care journey 
  • Developing new treatment options for complex conditions 

When your child is diagnosed with a heart condition, our pediatric cardiologists work hand-in-hand with your child’s pediatrician and other specialists to ensure coordinated, comprehensive care. 

Frequently asked questions about pediatric heart conditions 

What are the signs of a heart problem in children? 

Signs can include rapid breathing, fatigue, poor weight gain, bluish skin or lips, fainting or chest pain. If you notice these symptoms, contact your child’s doctor right away. 

Are all pediatric heart conditions present at birth? 

Not always. Some heart problems are congenital (present at birth), while others can develop later due to infections, illnesses or other medical conditions.

How are heart conditions diagnosed in children?

Pediatric cardiologists use tests such as echocardiograms (heart ultrasounds), electrocardiograms (EKGs), chest X-rays and MRIs to diagnose heart problems.

Can children with heart conditions live normal lives?

Many children with heart conditions go on to live active, healthy lives, especially with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Some conditions may require surgery, medication or long-term follow-up care.

When should my child see a pediatric cardiologist?

Your child should see a pediatric cardiologist if their doctor notices a heart murmur, abnormal heartbeat, poor growth or other symptoms suggesting a heart problem.

Take the next step

If your child has symptoms of a heart condition or has been diagnosed with one, we’re here to help.

Schedule an appointment with a Banner Children’s pediatric cardiologist to learn more about your child’s care options.