Pediatric Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome occurs when half of the heart doesn’t work the way it should. The Heart Center at Children’s Health is among a select few in the country with a dedicated program for children undergoing treatments for this rare congenital heart disease.

Dallas

214-456-2333
Fax: 214-456-2714

Plano

469-303-4300
Fax: 469-303-4310

Park Cities

469-488-7000
Fax: 469-488-7001

Prosper

469-303-5000
Fax: 214-867-9511

Request an Appointment with codes: Cardiology (Heart Center)

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What causes Pediatric Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS)?

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome happens for unknown reasons as a baby develops in the womb. Heart defects aren’t the result of anything a woman does – or doesn’t do – during pregnancy.

Pediatric Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS) Doctors and Providers

As experts in hypoplastic left heart syndrome, our team is well-positioned to guide you and your child through the various surgeries and to care for your child later in life.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How common is hypoplastic left heart syndrome?

    Hypoplastic left heart syndrome is a very rare heart defect. It occurs in about 1,000 newborns in the U.S. every year.

  • What type of follow-up care does my child need?

    Your child needs lifelong monitoring by a cardiologist. When they become an adult, they can transition to our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program. A child with hypoplastic left heart syndrome is at risk for developing an arrhythmia (abnormal heart rhythm), leaky heart valves or other heart problems that require treatment.

  • Will my child have an active life?

    Even after surgery, your child only has half of a working heart. Your child’s exercise capacity will be about two-thirds of normal levels. Although some physical activities may be safe, it’s best to follow the advice of your child’s cardiologist. Most children need to limit involvement in contact sports or other strenuous physical activities.