Researchers develop visual tools for improved surgery on newborn babies

Researchers at King's College London have started developing visual tools that might help to improve surgery for newborn babies with life-threatening heart disease.

This is contained in a study released on Wednesday by the college.

It identified the early symptoms to include difficulty in breathing, weak pulse and blueish skin.

"Without treatment, babies with HLHS quickly become seriously ill.

"All babies with HLHS need a series of life-saving operations during the first few years of life.

"However, the severity of HLHS varies and it's not clear which surgical technique works best in each situation,’’ it said.

The team of scientists that conducted the research said the findings has given surgeons the tools they need to select the best treatment plan for each individual baby and improving their chance of survival.

Dr. Pablo Lamata, a lecturer from King's College London, said the team has analysed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans and using advanced computer modeling techniques to create a virtual 3D model of the baby's heart before and after surgery.

He said the researchers are aiming to help doctors visualize the shape of each baby's heart at birth, provide more detailed information on the condition of the heart, and help surgeons monitor how it adapts to surgery.

"Analysing and comparing virtual models of babies' hearts before and after surgery will help reveal the benefits and drawbacks of different surgical techniques.

"We hope that this new technique will help us determine the best approach for surgery and how babies might respond," he said.