Selected Topics in Pediatric Cardiology (Hardback)

Pediatric cardiology has developed into a specialism within both pediatrics and cardiology over the past few decades. It covers cardiac disorders in developing children, from the fetal stage through young adulthood. Lifelong monitoring is sometimes necessary for children with congenital cardiac conditions, regardless of whether they have undergone surgery. The modern therapy of congenital heart disorders has led to a normal or almost normal life during childhood and adulthood.
Diagnostic techniques and treatment methods have made significant progress in pediatric cardiology, leading to innovative procedures with higher success rates and improved quality of life. Advanced imaging techniques for pediatric patients encompass echocardiography, cardiac MRI, computed tomography, angiography, and electrophysiological examinations with three-dimensional mapping.
Catheter procedures have evolved from atrial balloon septostomy to the innovation of novel occluders for atrial and ventricular septal defects. The improvement in stent quality has enabled better long-term outcomes with fewer complications. Over the last twenty years, pediatric invasive and semi-invasive electrophysiology has emerged as a standard component of treatment strategies. Transesophageal procedures can be performed in newborns and young children without the risks associated with invasive techniques.
The pharmacist now exerts a greater influence in the routine practice of pediatric cardiology. Pediatric patients utilize the identical medications as adult cardiac patients; yet, drugs have infrequently received thorough evaluation in children via large-scale studies. The pharmacist's support facilitates a more customized, pediatric-oriented treatment.