Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Clinic

Children who are born with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk for problems with the growth and development of their brain and central nervous system. The Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Clinic evaluates and treats babies and children with complex congenital heart defects who had heart surgery before their first birthday. Clinicians provide close follow-up during their first 5 years of life and offer intermittent follow-up and consultation for children age 5-18 years. A visit to the Cardiac Neurodevelopmental Clinic can provide reassurance that a child's brain and central nervous system are developing normally. Clinical disciplines available in the clinic include: developmental behavioral pediatrics, psychology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social work, nutrition, and audiology. Clinic staff members work in interdisciplinary teams, combining expertise to evaluate each child and make recommendations for care. If clinicians find developmental issues, they can help connect families with the therapies that make a difference.