Congenital Heart Defects in Children
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Overview
Advances in surgery and medication mean that more and more children born with heart defects are surviving. It is estimated that 20,000 people with congenital heart disease reach adulthood every year in the United States.
For some children with mild levels of disease, the only treatment necessary may be regular monitoring of the defect and extra precautions against infection during surgical or dental procedures. For others, treatment may range from medications up through heart and lung transplantation.
UCSF Benioff Children's Hospitals medical specialists have reviewed this information. It is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your child's doctor or other health care provider. We encourage you to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with your child's provider.
Awards & achievements
Best in Northern California for cardiology & heart surgery
Ranked among the nation's best in 11 specialties
Clinical trials
Effect of Fetal Aortic Valvuloplasty on OutcomesOpens in a new window
In one of the most severe congenital heart defects, hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), the left ventricle is underdeveloped and the prognosis is worse than in most other heart defects. The underdevelopment can occur gradually during fetal growth caused by a narrowing of the aortic valve...COMPASSION S3 - Evaluation of the SAPIEN 3 Transcatheter Heart Valve in Patients With Pulmonary Valve DysfunctionOpens in a new window
This study will demonstrate the safety and effectiveness of the Edwards Lifesciences SAPIEN 3/SAPIEN 3 Ultra RESILIA Transcatheter Heart Valve (THV) Systems in subjects with a dysfunctional right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) conduit or previously implanted valve in the pulmonic position with a clinical indication for intervention.
Research initiatives
UCSF Pediatric Heart Center ResearchOpens in a new window
Our team strives to improve the understanding and treatment of children with congenital and acquired heart disease through basic science, clinical trials and translational research.