Paediatric Cardiac Surgery
Paediatric cardiac surgery plays a vital role in treating congenital and acquired heart conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Congenital heart disease (CHD) is among the most common birth defects worldwide, affecting nearly 1 in 100 live births. With timely diagnosis and surgical intervention, many children can lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
At CureU Healthcare, we connect families with some of the best paediatric cardiac surgeons and hospitals in India, offering advanced surgical care, compassionate support, and affordable treatment options for international patients.
What is Paediatric Cardiac Surgery?
Paediatric cardiac surgery refers to a range of surgical procedures performed to correct structural abnormalities or functional problems in a child’s heart. These surgeries may be performed soon after birth, during infancy, or later in childhood, depending on the severity of the condition.
Unlike adult cardiac surgery, paediatric procedures require specialized expertise and equipment because a child’s heart is smaller, more delicate, and constantly growing.
Common Heart Conditions Requiring Surgery in Children
Some of the most frequent conditions that may require paediatric cardiac surgery include:
- Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) A hole between the upper chambers of the heart.
- Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) A hole between the lower chambers of the heart.
- Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) A combination of four heart defects causing low oxygen levels.
- Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) An abnormal connection between the aorta and pulmonary artery.
- Coarctation of the Aorta (CoA) Narrowing of the main artery that carries blood from the heart.
- Transposition of the Great Arteries (TGA) A condition where the main arteries are switched.
- Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Underdevelopment of the left side of the heart.
Types of Paediatric Cardiac Surgery
There are several surgical techniques used depending on the child’s condition:
Open-Heart Surgery
- Involves opening the chest and using a heart-lung bypass machine.
- Often used for complex defects like TOF, VSD, or valve repairs.
Closed-Heart Surgery
- Performed without the need for a heart-lung machine.
- Used for conditions such as PDA ligation or coarctation repair.
Minimally Invasive Surgery
- Performed through small incisions with specialized instruments.
- Leads to faster recovery, less pain, and shorter hospital stays.
Catheter-Based Interventions
- Non-surgical procedures using catheters inserted through blood vessels.
- Used for ASD closure, balloon angioplasty, or stent placement.
How to Prepare a Child for Cardiac Surgery
Preparing for surgery involves careful planning by both parents and doctors:
- Comprehensive Evaluation Echocardiogram, MRI, CT scan, and blood tests.
- Pre-Surgical Counseling Families are educated about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
- Psychological Support Children and parents receive emotional guidance to ease anxiety.
- Nutritional and Medical Optimization Ensuring the child is strong enough to undergo surgery.
Recovery After Paediatric Cardiac Surgery
Recovery depends on the type of surgery and the child’s overall health. Typically:
- Children spend a few days in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for monitoring. undefined
- Hospital stay lasts between 5 14 days.
- Pain is managed effectively, and physical activity is gradually introduced. undefined
- Long-term follow-up with a cardiologist ensures proper growth and heart function. undefined
Risks and Complications
Although paediatric cardiac surgery is highly advanced, risks may include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeat)
- Blood clots
- Breathing difficulties
- Rarely, neurological complications
Cost of Paediatric Cardiac Surgery in India
India is a leading destination for affordable paediatric heart surgery without compromising on quality.
- In Western countries, surgery may cost between $40,000 – $100,000 USD.
- In India, the same procedures cost between ₹2,50,000 – ₹6,50,000 ($3,000 – $8,000 USD) depending on the complexity, hospital, and technology used.
Why Choose India for Paediatric Cardiac Surgery?
- Highly trained paediatric cardiac surgeons with global experience.
- Advanced hospitals equipped with specialized paediatric ICUs.
- Cutting-edge techniques like minimally invasive surgery and robotic-assisted surgery.
- Significantly lower costs compared to Western nations.
- Dedicated international patient support through CureU Healthcare.
Conclusion
Paediatric cardiac surgery offers hope to countless families whose children suffer from congenital or acquired heart diseases. With timely surgery, advanced technology, and skilled medical teams, children can overcome heart challenges and live healthier lives.
