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Paediatric (Ped) Cardiology

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Overview

Children with heart conditions need highly specialised care that not only addresses the complexity of the condition but also takes into account their unique physiology and developmental needs. From birth defects of the heart to rhythm abnormalities and acquired inflammatory conditions, paediatric heart diseases can significantly impact a child’s growth, development, and quality of life. At Max Hospital, one of the leading paediatric cardiology hospitals in India, we offer expert diagnosis and advanced treatment for a wide range of heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Our team of experienced paediatric cardiologists works in close coordination with paediatric cardiac surgeons, intensivists, and rehabilitation specialists to ensure complete and compassionate care, from early diagnosis to long-term follow-up.

Understanding Paediatric Cardiology

  • Paediatric cardiology is a specialised branch of medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating heart conditions in children, from newborns to adolescents. Unlike adult cardiology, this field requires a deep understanding of the developing cardiovascular system and the unique nature of congenital and acquired heart diseases in younger patients.
  • Paediatric cardiologists are trained to manage a wide range of heart conditions, including structural defects present at birth, rhythm disorders, and conditions that develop later due to infections or inflammation. They use advanced diagnostic tools such as echocardiograms, ECGs, and cardiac MRIs to assess heart function and anatomy. In collaboration with cardiac surgeons, intensivists, and paediatricians, they provide comprehensive medical and surgical care tailored to each child’s age and condition.

Heart Conditions Treated in Children

At Max Hospital, our paediatric cardiology team manages a wide range of heart conditions affecting infants, children, and adolescents. Each condition is approached with careful evaluation, child-specific treatment, and ongoing support to ensure the best possible outcomes.

  • Congenital Heart Defects: Structural abnormalities present at birth, such as septal defects (ASD/VSD), valve malformations, or abnormal blood vessels, often requiring early diagnosis, cardiac catheter-based interventions and Paediatric Cardiac Surgery.
  • Heart Murmurs: Abnormal heart sounds that may indicate an underlying structural issue or may be harmless; evaluation helps differentiate between innocent and pathological murmurs.
  • Arrhythmias: Irregular heart rhythms causing the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or erratically. These are monitored and managed with medications, lifestyle guidance, or electrophysiology procedures.
  • Cardiomyopathy: A condition where the heart muscle becomes thickened, weakened, or stiff, affecting its ability to pump blood effectively; requires regular monitoring and medical treatment. 
  • Kawasaki Disease / MIS-C / MIS-N: Inflammatory conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, often following viral infections; early diagnosis and treatment are critical to prevent coronary artery complications.
  • Rheumatic Heart Disease: A long-term complication of untreated strep throat or rheumatic fever that can cause permanent damage to heart valves.
  • Childhood Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure in children, often linked to kidney disease, obesity, or congenital abnormalities, requiring ongoing lifestyle and medical management.
  • Pulmonary Valve Stenosis: A congenital narrowing of the pulmonary valve, reducing blood flow from the heart to the lungs. Treatment may include balloon valvuloplasty or surgical correction.
  • Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome: A condition with an extra electrical pathway in the heart, leading to episodes of rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), which may need medication or ablation therapy.

Symptoms and Early Warning Signs of Heart Conditions in Children

Early identification of heart-related symptoms in children is critical for timely diagnosis and intervention. While some heart conditions may be detected at birth, others may become apparent only as the child grows. Parents and caregivers should remain attentive to signs that may indicate a potential cardiac issue.

Common symptoms to watch for include:

  • Bluish discolouration to the lips, skin, or fingertips (cyanosis)
  • Rapid or laboured breathing, especially during feeding or activity
  • Poor weight gain or slow growth
  • Excessive fatigue or sleepiness
  • Difficulty feeding in infants
  • Chest pain, especially during physical activity
  • Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  • Swelling in the legs, abdomen, or around the eyes
  • Fainting or unexplained dizziness
  • Poor exercise tolerance or frequent shortness of breath

Diagnostic Methods in Paediatric Cardiology

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective cardiac care in children. At Max Hospital, we use a comprehensive set of child-friendly diagnostic tools to evaluate heart function, detect abnormalities, and plan appropriate treatment. These methods are safe, non-invasive or minimally invasive, and tailored to suit children of all ages.

Common diagnostic methods include:

  • Chest X-ray: Will give a clue to any congenital heart condition. It’s the first line of investigation.
  • Electrocardiography (ECG): Records the heart’s electrical activity to detect arrhythmias, conduction disorders, or signs of structural heart disease.
  • Echocardiography (2D/3D/TEE): A non-invasive ultrasound test that provides real-time images of the heart’s structure and motion. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) offers enhanced views by placing a probe in the oesophagus.
  • Holter Monitoring and Event Recorders: Portable devices that continuously record heart rhythms over 24–48 hours or longer, useful for detecting intermittent arrhythmias.
  • Cardiac Catheterisation: A minimally invasive test where a thin tube is inserted through a blood vessel to the heart to assess pressure, oxygen levels, and heart anatomy. It can also be used for interventional procedures.
  • Cardiac MRI and CT Scans: Provide detailed cross-sectional and 3D images of the heart and blood vessels, helping assess complex congenital heart defects and monitor heart function without radiation (in MRI).
  • Stress Testing: Assesses how the heart performs under physical exertion. Used in older children to evaluate chest pain, arrhythmias, or exercise tolerance.
  • Pulmonary Angiography and Perfusion Scans: Imaging tests that evaluate blood flow in the lungs and pulmonary arteries, especially in congenital or post-surgical cases.

Treatment Options in Paediatric Cardiology

Treatment of heart conditions in children depends on the type and severity of the disorder, the child’s age, and overall health. At Max Hospital, our approach combines advanced medical expertise with minimally invasive technologies and long-term follow-up to ensure every child receives the best care possible.

Common treatment options include:

  • Medications and Medical Monitoring: Many heart conditions can be managed with medications that control blood pressure, improve heart function, manage arrhythmias, or reduce fluid buildup. Ongoing monitoring ensures timely adjustments in treatment.
  • Interventional Cardiology (e.g., Balloon Valvuloplasty, Catheter Procedures): Minimally invasive techniques performed through a catheter inserted into a blood vessel. These include balloon procedures to open narrowed valves or vessels, and device closures for defects like atrial septal defects (ASD) or patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).
  • Open-Heart Surgery and Valve Replacement: Required in complex congenital heart defects or when valves need repair or replacement. Surgical techniques are tailored to preserve heart function and support healthy growth.
  • Post-Surgical Care and Long-Term Follow-Up: After surgery or interventions, children are closely followed by a dedicated team for recovery, rehabilitation, medication support, and developmental monitoring. Lifelong cardiology care is often required in complex cases.

Advanced Technology in Paediatric Cardiology at Max Hospital

At Max Hospital, cutting-edge technology plays a vital role in enhancing the safety, accuracy, and effectiveness of paediatric cardiac care. Our child-focused infrastructure and diagnostic systems are designed to support timely diagnosis, minimally invasive treatments, and faster recovery for young patients.

Key technologies include:

  • 3D and Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE): Provides high-resolution images of heart structures and blood flow, essential for diagnosing complex congenital heart defects and planning surgical interventions.
  • High-Resolution Cardiac MRI: A non-invasive imaging tool that offers detailed, radiation-free scans to assess heart anatomy and function, especially in children with congenital anomalies.
  • Low-Dose Radiation CT Scanners: These advanced machines minimise radiation exposure while producing high-quality images, making them safe for repeated use in growing children.
  • Paediatric-Specific Cath Lab Infrastructure: Specially equipped catheterisation labs with child-sized tools and real-time imaging support interventional procedures like balloon valvuloplasty and device closures with precision.
  • Holter and Event Monitoring Systems: Portable monitoring devices that help detect intermittent arrhythmias over extended periods, supporting accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
  • Intraoperative Monitoring and Imaging: Used during surgery to guide the procedure in real-time, ensuring precise repair of heart defects and optimal outcomes.

Why Choose Max Hospital for Paediatric Cardiology?

Max Hospital is recognised among the leading centres for paediatric cardiac care in India, offering a seamless blend of clinical expertise, advanced technology, and family-centred support. Our focus goes beyond treatment—we aim to ensure that every child receives care that is safe, effective, and compassionate.

What sets us apart:

Renowned Paediatric Cardiologists

Our team includes highly trained specialists with vast experience in diagnosing and managing complex heart conditions in children of all ages, from newborns to adolescents. Their expertise ensures that even the most delicate and rare cardiac issues are treated with precision, compassion, and confidence.

Multispecialty Coordination

Paediatric cardiologists work closely with paediatric cardiac surgeons, intensivists, neonatologists, and rehabilitation experts to provide integrated, end-to-end care. This collaborative approach helps streamline every stage of treatment, from diagnosis to recovery, ensuring consistency and continuity in care.

NICU and PICU Support

Max Hospital offers 24x7 neonatal and paediatric intensive care units equipped to manage critical cardiac emergencies and support postoperative recovery. These units are staffed by skilled critical care specialists and advanced monitoring systems, creating a safe and responsive environment for high-risk cases.

Advanced Diagnostics and Interventions

With child-specific catheterisation labs, 3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and minimally invasive tools, we ensure precise and early intervention with minimal discomfort. These technologies are tailored for young patients, helping reduce hospital stays and promoting quicker healing.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Every child is unique. Our team develops individualised care plans based on the child’s condition, growth stage, and overall needs, ensuring both clinical success and family comfort. We also offer guidance to caregivers, empowering them with the knowledge and confidence to support recovery at home.

Proven Outcomes and Long-Term Support

From initial treatment to lifelong follow-up care, our specialists provide continuous monitoring, guidance, and support, helping children lead active, healthy lives. Our focus on outcome-based care has helped countless families see their children thrive after treatment.

Families across India and beyond trust Max Hospital for its unmatched commitment to paediatric heart care. Whether it’s a routine evaluation or a complex cardiac procedure, we are here to support every step of the journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How early can a child be diagnosed with a heart condition?

Many congenital heart defects can be detected before birth through foetal echocardiography or shortly after birth during routine examinations. Other conditions may present later in infancy or childhood as symptoms develop.

What are the risks of paediatric cardiac surgery?

Risks depend on the child’s condition, age, and the type of surgery. However, with modern techniques, experienced surgeons, and intraoperative monitoring, most procedures are safe and have excellent outcomes.

Will my child need lifelong follow-up after treatment?

Yes. Children treated for congenital or acquired heart conditions often require periodic check-ups to monitor heart function, medication needs, or growth-related changes.

Can congenital heart defects be cured?

Many congenital heart defects can be completely corrected through surgery or catheter-based interventions. Others may require long-term management but can still allow a child to lead a 

What signs should prompt a cardiac evaluation in children?

Symptoms like bluish skin, rapid breathing, fatigue, poor feeding, chest pain, or fainting should be evaluated by a paediatric cardiologist.

What technologies does Max Hospital use to ensure safe diagnosis and treatment?

Max Hospital uses advanced tools such as 3D echocardiography, cardiac MRI, paediatric cath labs, and intraoperative imaging to ensure precision, safety, and child-specific care.

Is paediatric cardiac care available for newborns and preterm infants?

Yes. Our NICU is equipped to care for critically ill newborns, including those with heart conditions requiring early intervention or surgery.

Review 

Reviewed By Dr Muthu Jothi - Director – Paediatric Cardiac Surgery on 02 June 2025.

Paediatric (Ped) Cardiology: Condition & Treatments

Pulmonary Valve Stenosis
Truncus Arteriosus
Wolff-Parkinson-White (WPW) Syndrome

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