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Guerin Family Congenital Heart Program
Congenital heart disease refers to defects in the structure of the heart and great vessels which are present at birth. Many types of heart defects exist, most of which either obstruct blood flow in the heart or vessels near it, or cause blood to flow through the heart in an abnormal pattern. Other defects, however, can affect the heart's rhythm. The Vera and Paul Guerin Family Congenital Heart Program treats patients throughout their life for heart-related defects.
Heart defects are among the most common birth defects and are the leading cause of birth-defect-related deaths. Approximately 9 people in 1,000 are born with congenital heart defects, and each year more than 35,000 babies in the United States are born with congenital heart defects. Many defects don't need treatment, but some complex congenital heart defects require medication or surgery and should be monitored closely throughout a person's life by a cardiologist to ensure that care is managed appropriately.
Constance Alexander was diagnosed with aortic stenosis at age 78. The former professional roller skater refused to let heart failure, or fear, slow her down.Read Full Story
Aortic Stenosis is a narrowing of the opening of the aortic valve due to abnormalities or aging of the valve. Heart valve replacement or repair can treat this common heart defect.Read More