Heart & Blood Vessels

• The Fontan Procedure

  The Fontan procedure is open-heart surgery. Often, it’s done as the third of three surgeries to treat hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).

• The Glenn Procedure

  The Glenn procedure is an open-heart surgery. Often, it’s done as the second of three surgeries to treat hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).

• The Lymphatic System and Lymphatic Conditions (Topic Center)

  The body’s lymphatic system keeps fluid levels in balance and defends against infections. But problems can happen. Find out about lymphatic conditions and how they’re treated.

• The Norwood Procedure

  The Norwood procedure is an open-heart surgery. It’s the first of three surgeries to treat hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS).

• Thrombocytopenia

  With thrombocytopenia, there are too few blood cells called platelets. Many things can cause it and most can be treated.

• Tricuspid Atresia

  Tricuspid atresia is a congenital heart defect. A baby born with tricuspid atresia often has serious symptoms soon after birth because blood flow to the lungs is much less than normal.

• Truncus Arteriosus

  Truncus arteriosus is a heart defect that happens when a child is born with one large artery instead of two separate arteries.

• Understanding Sickle Cell Disease

  Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that makes red blood cells change shape. These sickle shaped cells get stuck together and block small blood vessels. This stops blood from moving as it should, which can lead to pain and organ damage.

• Venous Malformations

  A venous malformation (VM) is a place in the body where veins haven’t grown the right way. VMs can be difficult to treat.

• Ventricular Assist Device

  A ventricular assist device is a mechanical pump that takes over for the heart and pumps blood. This can give a weak or injured heart time to heal or support someone as they wait for a heart transplant.