The Scott & Laura Eller Congenital Heart Center is the only regional facility that provides a continuum of cardiac care for patients with congenital heart disease from before birth through childhood, adolescence and adulthood. The center offers this care through a balanced, comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that includes: 

• An integrated physician team
• Basic science and clinical research
• Comprehensive congenital heart disease education for patients, their caregivers and the public
• Inpatient and outpatient facilities that enable collaboration and efficiency
• Specially trained pediatric nurses and support staff
• State-of-the-art technology that enables advanced treatment options for heart disease Pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons work with perinatologists who see patients with high-risk pregnancies. Through this approach, patients can be monitored from before delivery. Surgeons also work with neonatologists, pediatric cardiologists, cardiac anesthesiologists and pediatric intensivists to provide the highest level of care.

When babies are diagnosed with heart disease in utero, they are delivered directly into a sophisticated cardiovascular care system that provides immediate care for even the most severe heart defects. All care is provided on the St. Joseph's campus.

With a greater than 98 percent success rate, pediatric cardiac surgical outcomes are two to three times better than expected national outcomes.

Believed to be the first of its kind in the country, patients will stay in the unit from the time they are admitted until the time they are discharged. The Pediatric CTICU’s mission is to provide the best medical care for children with congenital heart disease by incorporating the principles of continuity of care, dedicated specialized care, family-centered care and patient safety.

The new unit features:

• Twenty-four private rooms designed with patients and families in mind
• State-of-the-art medical equipment
• An echocardiolography reading room
• Multi-media conference room
• Playroom
• Treatment room
• Family waiting room and lounge

The new unit will be staffed by:

• Forty-two specially trained nurses
• Five cardiac intensivists
• Five pediatric cardiologists
• Two surgeons
• Respiratory therapists
• Pharmacists
• A Child Life specialist
• Social Work

For more information, call 877-602-4111.