Questions and answers

How long can a baby live with HLHS?

How long can a baby live with HLHS?

Most infants die within the first two weeks of life, with an average age at death of 4.5 days (31,33,34). Some patients with HLHS, however, can survive beyond sixty days, without any surgical intervention through the development of pulmonary hypertension (8,33).

Can a baby survive hypoplastic left heart syndrome?

Babies with hypoplastic left heart syndrome will not survive without surgery. Most babies will need a series of 3 surgeries during their first 2 to 3 years of life. After the surgeries, children will need special care and be monitored for complications.

What does it mean to have a small left ventricle?

Left ventricular hypoplasia is associated with a variety of congenital heart defects, including critical aortic stenosis, unbalanced atrioventricular canal, and total anomalous pulmonary venous connection, and is almost uniformly fatal without surgical or catheter-directed intervention.

How old is the oldest HLHS Survivor?

The oldest living person with HLHS is their 30s.

Can you live a normal life with HLHS?

After treatment, children with HLHS can go on to live relatively normal lives. Our Wellness Program supports families and helps navigate the challenges of life with a congenital heart condition through clinic visits, and events and activities.

What is the treatment for hypoplastic left heart syndrome?

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is treated through several surgical procedures or a heart transplant. Your child’s doctor will discuss treatment options with you. If the diagnosis has been made before the baby is born, doctors usually recommend delivery at a hospital with a cardiac surgery center.

What are the 3 surgeries for HLHS?

Surgery for hypoplastic left heart syndrome usually is done in three separate stages:

  • Norwood Procedure. This surgery usually is done within the first 2 weeks of a baby’s life.
  • Bi-directional Glenn Shunt Procedure. This usually is performed when an infant is 4 to 6 months of age.
  • Fontan Procedure.

What is the survival rate of hypoplastic right heart syndrome?

Prognosis (Outlook) The post-repair prognosis (survival rate) of a child who has undergone a Fontan procedure increases life longevity between 15 and 30 years.

Does HLHS run in families?

HLHS typically occurs sporadically (randomly), in otherwise normal babies with no family history of HLHS. In a few children, isolated HLHS is known to be genetic.

What is HLHS disease?

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a rare type of congenital heart disease involving a spectrum of cardiac abnormalities characterised as hypoplasia of the left ventricle and ascending aorta. If left untreated it inevitably results in death.

What is a hypoplastic heart?

Hypoplastic (pronounced hi-puh-PLAS-tik) left heart syndrome or HLHS is a birth defect that affects normal blood flow through the heart. Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a birth defect that affects normal blood flow through the heart.

What are the symptoms of cardiac disease?

Other symptoms of coronary artery disease include: Shortness of breath. Palpitations (irregular heart beats, or a “flip-flop” feeling in your chest) A faster heartbeat. Weakness or dizziness. Nausea. Sweating.