The Heart Institute

Find Out More About Congenital Heart Defects

Imagine abc7 TV Special
(Length: 11:47)
Meet Davik Teng, a young girl from Vietnam with a hole in her heart that could not be repaired in her country. Our physicians provided her with a lifelong correction.

Meet Patients & Caregivers
Video length: 17:19

Our Mission

To further the understanding, treatment, and survival of children with heart and lung disease through an integrated system of clinical care, education, and clinical and basic research.

The Heart Institute is known as a worldwide leader in the treatment of heart disease (congenital or acquired) and lung disorders in children. We provide virtually every advanced treatment for all heart disorders and defects affecting children.

Divisions & Programs Incorporated

Range of Services

Diagnosis
Consultation
Treatment
Ongoing management
Support services for families

Care Provided

Our Institute's physicians provide comprehensive care to approximately 8,000 children each year. More than 800 patients undergo cardiac surgery here annually, while another 5,000 patients receive non-invasive and invasive cardiology procedures. Treatment is provided for children from developmental stages from fetuses through adolescents. Our Accomplishments

Background on the Institute

The Heart Institute is setting the standard for care of children with congenital and acquired cardiovascular disease. In 1939, the West Coast’s first pediatric heart surgery was performed at Childrens Hospital Los Angeles, and we have continued our history of leadership. Today, the Heart Institute is the largest pediatric cardiovascular center in the West and a global referral center, receiving patients from across the nation and the world.

Co- Director
Vaughn Starnes, MD

Co-Director
Michael Silka, MD

Leadership

The Heart Institute is co-directed by Dr. Vaughn Starnes, one of the world's foremost pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons, and chief of the Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery at the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California and Dr. Michael Silka, a world-renowned cardiologist and expert in electrophysiology.