After its official establishment in early 2014, the division of Pediatric Cardiology has now resurrected in October 2022 under the directorship of Dr Edwin Francis who has proved his mettle in the field over the last two decades. With the prospect of making the department a center of excellence for pediatric cardiology, the team provides comprehensive care to all patients. With an exclusively dedicated cardiac catheterization lab, we are ready 24/7 to accept cases of any complexity for treatment. Complete spectrum of pediatric and adult congenital diagnostic and interventional procedures including ASD/VSD/PDA device closure (including PDA device closure in preterm and low birth weight), PDA stenting, Coarctation stenting, Balloon valvotomy, balloon atrial septostomy, transcatheter valve implantation, pulmonary artery stenting, paravalvular leak closure, etc. are done with excellent outcomes. The department also is the only center in Kerala with a record of doing trans-catheter closure of Sinus venosus ASDs which till now was the surgeon’s forte.
Our Services
- ASD/VSD/PDA device closure
- PDA stenting
- Coarctation stenting
- Balloon valvotomy
- Balloon atrial septostomy
- Para-valvular leak closure
- Transcatheter valve implantation
- Transcatheter closure of sinus venosus ASD
- Pediatric electrophysiology and arrhythmia services
- Pediatric pacemaker & ICD implantation and management
- Fetal cardiology unit - diagnosis and management of fetus with arrhythmia and congenital heart defects
- Comprehensive care for pregnancy complicated by CHD/PAN
Our Doctors
We have some of the best specialists from around the world, they bring years of experience and offer evidence-based treatment to ensure the best care for you.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
- Dedicated modern operating theatres.
- Dedicated digital catheterization lab with ECHO Navigation
- Electrophysiology lab-3D mapping, RF ablation.
- Echocardiography lab – 2D and 3D ECHO, Trans-esophageal ECHO.
- Advanced Fetal Heart Unit
- Adult Congenital Heart Disease Unit
- Pulmonary artery hypertension clinic
- BMU 40-blood monitoring unit, to enhance safety of complex surgeries during cardiopulmonary bypass (second installation in India).
- NIRS- Near Infra-Red Spectroscopy for advanced intraoperative brain monitoring to provide superior neurological outcomes in complex surgeries.
- ICE (Intra cardiac echocardiography)
- Exclusive pediatric cardiac ICU
- ECMO
- Cardiac CT and MRI
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
What is the most common heart disease in children?
The most common type of heart defect is a ventricular septal defect (VSD).
What does a paediatric cardiologist do?
A pediatric cardiologist provides specialised care for children with heart conditions. They diagnose and treat heart problems like congenital heart defects, arrhythmias, and heart failure. Paediatric cardiologists often use diagnostic tools such as echocardiograms, ECGs, and MRIs to assess heart health. They manage treatments that may include medication, interventional procedures like cardiac catheterization, and coordination with cardiac surgeons for necessary surgeries.
What question you should ask a paediatric cardiologist
When talking to a pediatric cardiologist, ask about your child's specific heart condition and what it means. Inquire about the treatment options, their benefits, risks, and side effects. Understand how the treatment will affect your child's daily life and if any lifestyle changes are needed. Also, ask about follow-up care and how often you must see the cardiologist. Make sure to clarify any medical terms or procedures you don't understand to feel confident in managing your child's health.
What are the most common types of conditions that paediatric cardiologists treat?
Paediatric cardiologists commonly treat a variety of heart conditions in children. These include congenital heart defects such as atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, and patent ductus arteriosus, which are structural issues present from birth. They also manage arrhythmias, which are problems with the heart's rhythm, and cardiomyopathies, which affect the heart muscle.
When should I consider seeing a paediatric cardiologist?
You should consider seeing a paediatric cardiologist if your child shows signs of a heart problem, such as difficulty breathing, frequent chest pain and rapid heartbeat. It's also important if your child has a known heart condition or a family history of heart disease.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a paediatric cardiologist?
Before your first visit to a pediatric cardiologist, create a detailed timeline of your child's heart-related symptoms. Bring any previous test results, such as EKGs or echocardiograms. Write down questions about what might be causing the symptoms and possible treatments. Make sure to have a list of your child's medications and any known allergies. Explain to your child what the cardiologist does to help ease any anxiety.
What is early heart disease called?
Coronary artery disease, also called CAD, is a condition that affects your heart. It is the most common heart disease in the United States. CAD happens when coronary arteries struggle to supply the heart with enough blood, oxygen and nutrients. Cholesterol deposits, or plaques, are almost always to blame.
How does a paediatric cardiologist decide on a treatment plan?
A paediatric cardiologist in Kochi decides on a treatment plan by following hospital guidelines and considering the child's specific heart condition. They start with a detailed evaluation, including medical history and diagnostic tests. Since complex cases often require teamwork, they collaborate with other specialists like surgeons and paediatricians. The cardiologist then creates a personalised plan, which may involve medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
Will a paediatric cardiologist help manage side effects during treatment?
Yes, a paediatric cardiologist will help manage side effects during treatment. They will closely monitor your child's response to the treatment and adjust as needed to reduce any side effects. If serious side effects happen, they will act quickly to address them, ensuring your child's safety and comfort throughout the treatment.
What documents should I carry on my first visit to a paediatric cardiologist?
For your first visit to a pediatric cardiologist in Kochi, bring all relevant medical records, including previous echocardiograms, ECGs, and MRIs. Have a detailed list of current medications, dosages, and any known allergies. Include a referral letter from your paediatrician explaining the reason for the consultation. Provide a summary of your child's medical history, especially any family history of heart conditions. It's also helpful to bring growth charts and developmental assessments.
How do paediatric cardiologists decide if surgery is necessary?
Paediatric cardiologists decide if surgery is necessary by examining the child's heart with tests such as echocardiograms. They consider the severity of the heart defect and its impact on the child's health. If the condition is serious and medication isn't enough, they recommend surgery to fix the problem and ensure a better quality of life for the child.
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