CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
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At HCA UK, we provide expert care for babies and children with heart conditions, both congenital and acquired. This care is delivered at our dedicated unit, at The Portland Hospital in London, which has been commended by the Care Quality Commission for its patient-centred care and compassionate staff.
Your child will receive expert treatment from some of the world's leading paediatric cardiac specialists in state-of-the-art facilities. But we also go out of our way to give them a home away from home, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere in which they can thrive.
Congenital heart condition is a term used to describe structural problems with the heart that a child is born with. It’s a common condition, affecting up to nine in every 1,000 babies in the UK. Many of these can now be treated using minimally invasive and non-surgical procedures.
Acquired heart conditions are those conditions that develop after birth. These are often caused by infections, inflammation, or other illnesses. Examples include rheumatic heart disease, which can lead to mitral valve stenosis, or Kawasaki disease.
Cardiac symptoms in children are varied and can often be caused by other, unrelated, issues. However, they can include:
• Chest pains
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Excessive sweating
• Fainting
• Fatigue
• Heart palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Swelling in the tummy, feet or ankles
If you’re worried about your child’s symptoms, you can book same-day and next-day private consultant appointments.
Next day appointments
State-of-the-art diagnostics
Specialist treatment for complex conditions
At HCA UK, your child or young person will be cared for by a dedicated team of paediatric cardiology specialists, including some of the world's leading consultants clinical nurse specialists. Along with our vital support staff, they’re there at all times, so your child gets the help they need, when they need it, no matter how complex their case.
Some of the conditions we treat include:
Your child will have access to the latest diagnostic technology and specialised facilities during their time with us. These include state-of-the-art operating theatres, catheter and electrophysiology laboratories, and a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU).
Electrophysiology studies (EPS) help us to map electrical activity in the heart to find the source of arrhythmias and determine the best treatment for you child. Meanwhile, The Harley Street Clinic can offer highly-specialised, low-dose radiation scans for children with congenital heart conditions.
Our leading consultants offer a wide range of pioneering treatments, including:
When your child needs to spend time in hospital, it can be an emotional and difficult time for the whole family. They need to feel safe and secure, and you need to know they’re getting dedicated and fully personalised medical care and attention.
At HCA UK, we’re dedicated to providing compassionate care in a warm and welcoming environment. It’s one of the ways we can help to reduce any anxiety for your child and support their recovery.
That means a dedicated team of paediatric experts, including leading consultants, surgeons, clinical nurse specialists, as well as support staff, all there for your child at all times, so they get the help they need, when they need it.
Play, pet and music therapy
Educational specialists
Specially designed menus
State-of-the-art treatment
Comfortable rooms
The Portland Hospital is the only independent hospital in the UK specialising in paediatric congenital heart treatments, while The Harley Street Clinic offers highly-specialised, low-dose radiation scans for paediatric patients with congenital heart conditions.
Accessing private health care
“My mum and I were overwhelmed with the level of care I received at The Portland Hospital and The Harley Street Clinic. We felt so safe and cared for.”
* Based on national private cardiac volumes. Data source: Private Health Information Network, March 2024
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.