Archive for transposition of the great arteries
Experience and innovation create a safer type of heart surgery
The Eureka moment came the day before heart surgery. Easton Schlein wasn’t an ideal candidate for a full-scale surgical repair of an underdeveloped left ventricle. But his cardiac surgeons weren’t satisfied that they instead had to use the Fontan procedure, the only other option for that condition, but one associated with long-term liver complications. Reviewing ... Read More
My continuing heart journey with Boston Children’s
My connection to Boston Children’s Hospital started on a bright and sunny June day in 1979. My parents, who were excitedly anticipating what they assumed would be the uncomplicated birth of their first child, got an unexpected surprise when I was born completely blue (like a Smurf) and had to be rushed to Boston Children’s. ... Read More
After four unsuccessful heart surgeries, Nicholas finds hope
When Brenna and Lorenzo Degano arrived in Boston with their son, Nicholas, last April, it was with a feeling of restrained hope. After four unsuccessful heart surgeries in California, they were hesitant to put their son through a fifth surgery not knowing if the outcome would be any different. Nicholas was diagnosed at age 7 ... Read More