Myocarditis is an inflammation of the muscle of the heart, causing it to function poorly. The inflammation is usually caused by a viral infection. Sometimes the patient recovers from the virus, but a process of inflammation started by the virus continues. Myocarditis is mostly seen in young infants. Some infants are exposed to a virus before being born. Treatment for myocarditis is based on treating the symptoms of the heart function. If mild or moderate, medications can help.

Pericarditis is a condition where the sac-like covering around the heart (pericardium) becomes inflamed. This inflammation is usually sudden and short lived. It can cause chest pain. Treatment generally involves anti-inflammatory medications. If the sac becomes too thick from the inflammation, surgery may be necessary. Support Our Biggest Stars Donate and help fund life-saving programs, research and support for our pediatric patients.   

Inova Children’s Heart Center participates in multi-institutional research. Our heart program is currently involved in research to improve our understanding of the functional genomic abnormalities associated with hereditary arrhythmias such as long QT syndrome, CPVT, ARVD, and Brugada Syndrome. Cardiac conditions in children are unique and show variable degrees of expressivity even within families. We are committed to better understanding these unique genetic and genomic factors within families and applying these innovative discoveries in the care we provide.

The Ross procedure is a method of aortic valve replacement in children and young adults. The procedure uses the child's own pulmonary valve to replace the defective aortic valve. A tissue graft (homograft) is placed to carry the blood from the heart to the lungs. It is also called pulmonary autograft for aortic valve replacement. The advantage of the Ross is it provides the potential for growth in children and does not require the use of blood thinners. We try to avoid blood thinners in children, if possible.

Help for parents of babies with complex heart problems Learning you are having a baby is an exciting time. Learning you are having a baby with a complex heart problem is a challenging time, too. At Inova Children's Hospital we have developed a Single Ventricle Program to help you and your family through this journey.

Mended Little Hearts Networking, events, and resources for families of children with any congenital heart defect. National organizations, with local chapters.  | Email:  | Email:  | Email: Pediatric Congenital Heart Association Education, resources, and networking for families of children with any congenital heart defect. National organization, with state chapters.  | Email: Tender Hearts Online networking for families of children with any congenital heart defect. Local northern Virginia support group.

Tetralogy of fallot is the most common form of cyanotic heart defects, more commonly known as "blue babies." Infants are diagnosed at birth through an abnormal newborn screening, by detecting a murmur, or by seeing the baby is not a normal color.

Health Plans Accepted at Inova Children's Hospital Inova Children’s Hospital is one of Inova’s five hospitals and 140 additional locations in northern Virginia, including urgent and emergency care centers, physician offices and physical therapy centers. Inova offers convenient access and choice to the communities we serve. Inova Children’s Hospital participates with the following leading commercial and government insurance plans. Please be sure to verify coverage with your insurance carrier as plans frequently change.