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The Department of PediatricsDivision of Pediatric CardiologyHeart Failure, Pulmonary Vascular Diseases and Transplantation |
Pediatric Heart Failure Program
The Pediatric Heart Failure Program at Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA is unique in its dedication to the medical management of heart failure in pediatric patients. This multidisciplinary approach strives to successfully treat this unique population. This program is one of a few programs dedicated specifically to Pediatric Heart Failure. Our involvement with clinical research and protocols allows us to offer the latest in medical innovations. Under the leadership of Dr. Juan Alejos, this program acts to prepare patients who may eventually require cardiac transplantation and transition them into this process.
Pediatric Heart and Heart-Lung Transplant Program
The Pediatric Heart and Heart-Lung Transplant Program acts as one of the major referral centers for the Western United States. We performed our first transplant in 1984 and have performed over 200 to date. The program is a coordinated effort among pediatric cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, dentists, nurse coordinators, nutritional specialists, social workers, and child developmental specialists. The program is directed by Dr. Juan Alejos of Pediatric Cardiology and Dr. Brian Reemtsen of Cardiothoracic Surgery. Medical support is provided by Drs. Greg Perens and Nancy Halnon and Joyleen Martinez ACNP. Dr. Hillel Laks also adds his expertise to the team.
This multidisciplinary team has extensive experience in the care of pediatric patients who require heart or heart-lung transplants. Patients from infancy to young adulthood may be evaluated for heart or heart-lung transplantation by team members as either inpatients or outpatients. A wide range of patients are evaluated including those with complex congenital heart disease. Our overall experience results in program survivals which exceed national standards. We also have available ventricular assist devices including the Berlin Heart. These devices may serve to provide circulatory support as a bridge to successful cardiac transplantation. The evaluation is enhanced by the multidisciplinary approach as well as the wealth of knowledge available at UCLA, which is one of the leading centers in the United States in pediatric organ transplantation. In combination with the Pediatric Heart Failure Program, the Pediatric Heart and Heart-Lung Transplant Program offers new hope to pediatric patients with failing hearts.
Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Diseases Program
The Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Diseases Program was initiated in 2005. It was established by Dr. Juan Alejos for the treatment of pulmonary hypertension both in children and adults. With the invaluable assistance of Dr. Jamil Aboulhosn of Adult Congenital Cardiology and Dr. Andranik Madikians and Dr. Robert Kelley of Pediatric Critical Care, the program is rapidly developing as a leader in this arena. Providing extensive expertise in evaluation and medical management, this program has provided valuable hope to patients with this condition. The most advanced medical therapy is offered and the experience of the Adult Pulmonary Hypertension program is a major support. In conjunction with Dr. Aboulhosn, this program participates in extensive clinical research in this area.
310) 825-5296 Information and referral
(310) 825-0867 Appointments
| Physician | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Alejos, Juan Carlos MD | Pediatric Cardiology |
| Halnon, Nancy MD | Pediatric Cardiology |
| Perens, Gregory MD | Pediatric Cardiology |
| Reardon, Leigh Christopher MD | Internal Medicine; Pediatric Cardiology |
Pediatrics
Pediatric Cardiology
Transplant Surgery
Body System Location
Blood, Heart and Circulation
Age/Sex Gender
Child/Teen Health
Pediatric Heart and Lung Transplantation website: http://transplants.ucla.edu
