Pediatric Dilated Aorta Caused by Connective Tissue Disorders Program

Pediatric Dilated Aorta Caused by Connective Tissue Disorders Program

Expert diagnosis and treatment for dilated aortas

Every year, we diagnose and care for hundreds of children from all over the U.S. who are living with dilated aortas. This means we have the experience and expertise to do everything possible to give your child a happier, healthier future.

A dilated (or expanded) aorta can be a life-changing diagnosis for your child and family. Children with these conditions often face a variety of health challenges and need specialized treatment throughout their life.

The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the body. Dilated aortas can be caused by genetic conditions and by certain types of congenital heart disease. If the aorta becomes too dilated the walls of this blood vessel can tear.

We have special expertise in treating dilated aortas related to genetic diseases that cause connective tissue disorders. These include Marfan syndrome, Loeys-Dietz syndrome, Turner syndrome and Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Our connective tissues are responsible for keeping the structure and form of our organs and body. Tendons, ligaments, bones and fat are all considered connective tissue. In these conditions the aorta dilates because of weakness in the walls.

Children's Health℠ also treats dilated aortas caused by other conditions, like bicuspid aortic valve, aortic coarctation and other cardiac conditions.

Figuring out why your child’s aorta is dilated is the first step in finding the right treatment. Then, we create a comprehensive care plan that meets your child’s needs. Our goal is to prevent future complications and help your child live a full, healthy life – by harnessing the combined expertise of our team of cardiologists, geneticists, cardiac surgeons and other experts.

Dallas

214-456-2333
Fax: 214-456-2714
Ste C3035

Plano

469-303-4300
Fax: 469-303-4310
Ste T4100

Request an Appointment with codes: Cardiology (Heart Center)

Refer a Patient with Dilated Aorta Caused by Connective Tissue Disorders Program

Accepted Insurance Plans

Conditions We Treat

  • Aortic Aneurysm
  • Aortic Dissection
  • Beals Syndrome
  • Bicuspid Aortic Valve
  • Congenital Contractural Arachnodactyly
  • Connective Tissue Disorder
  • Dilated Aorta
  • Ectopia Lentis Syndrome
  • Familial Aortic Aneurysm
  • Loeys-Dietz Syndrome
  • MASS Phenotype
  • Shprintzen-Goldberg Syndrome
normal aorta, dilated aorta and corrected aorta

Understanding a complex condition

The aorta is the main blood vessel that carries blood from the heart to the body. A dilated (or expanded) aorta can be caused by several different conditions, including a connective tissue disorder that may be inherited and impact other areas of your child’s health.

The earlier your child receives treatment, the more likely it is they will avoid complications – and live healthier, longer lives.

Coordinated, comprehensive care

A dilated aorta can affect your child’s body in many ways. Children with dilated aortas caused by a connective tissue disorder may need to see an eye doctor, dentist, orthopedic specialist and/or surgeon. Keeping track of all the specialists and appointments can be overwhelming and time consuming. We’re here to help.

Our team will handle all the referrals your child needs and set up all their appointments. Plus, we keep track of the reports from each appointment and talk to all your doctors directly about your child’s treatment plan. We see the whole picture of your child’s health.

Fast treatment for serious complications

A dilated aorta is something your child is born with. It can get worse over time. The earlier your child receives treatment, the more likely they are to avoid complications – and to live a healthier, fuller life. Your child’s first visit with a cardiologist will be a detailed, thorough, one-hour appointment. Here’s what you can expect:

Dr. Mahony's unique competency mixed with her personal approach helped us make an incredibly difficult decision regarding our child. That decision immediately led to life changing results in her health.
Alexandra, Patient parent
  • Physical exam, where we’ll ask you about your child’s medical history and your family’s medical history.
  • Echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound of the heart where we can see the aorta.
  • MRI or CT scan, that takes a detailed image of the entire aorta, which helps us monitor for areas of dilation.
  • Genetic testing, which can identify changes (also called variants) in your child's chromosomes that may have caused the dilated aorta.

Compassionate counseling and support

If your child has a dilated aorta caused by a connective tissue disorder, they will need to see several doctors throughout their life for therapy, testing and treatment. These conditions are very rare and you might feel isolated and not know where to turn for help. Our social workers and psychologists are here to support you and your child. We can help your family come to terms with your child’s condition and to plan for a life filled with meaning.

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