A child’s heart needs special care. Sanford Children’s pediatric heart doctors diagnose and treat problems of the heart, lungs and blood vessels in children, providing complete care to keep the hearts of our youngest patients pumping properly.
Michele Pasierb, M.D., pediatric cardiologist, has joined the Sanford Children’s Campus in Bismarck, North Dakota, becoming the region’s only full-time pediatric cardiologist. In her practice, Dr. Pasierb sees herself as a partner to the parents whose children need her care.
“I believe in partnering with families to deliver exceptional care to their children and recognizing that they often do most of the work,” she said. “Working for the health of children is such a privilege.”
What is pediatric cardiology?
Pediatric cardiology is the study and treatment of heart and vascular disorders in children.
What conditions and diseases does a pediatric cardiologist treat?
Some of the conditions we treat are congenital (present at birth), while others develop or are acquired over time. Structural defects in the heart or blood vessels, heart rhythm disorders (arrhythmias), blood vessel disease, heart muscle disease (cardiomyopathy), heart valve disease and heart infections are the broad classes of pediatric cardiovascular conditions.
What types of procedures and treatments do you provide?
At our office, we rely on echocardiograms (ultrasound of the heart), ECGs and thorough physical exams to diagnosis heart problems. From there, treatments can range from medication and monitoring to cardiac surgery and even pediatric heart transplants in rare cases.
What kind of training do pediatric cardiologists have?
Following undergraduate studies, pediatric cardiologists undergo at least four years of training in medical school, three years of a pediatric residency and three or more years of fellowship training before they can practice.
When should someone see a pediatric cardiologist?
If your child experiences shortness of breath, tiredness or weakness, pale or discolored skin, an especially fast or slow heartbeat, dizziness or fainting, make an appointment with a pediatrician. The pediatrician will listen to your child’s heart and potentially order diagnostic tests to help identify the cause of your child’s symptoms. If the primary doctor uncovers a cardiovascular problem, they’ll refer you to a pediatric cardiologist for specialized care.
Sanford Health specialists in kids’ heart care
You don’t have to travel long distances for expert pediatric cardiology care. Sanford Health has board certified pediatric cardiologists in Bismarck and Fargo, North Dakota, and Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with outreach offered across our network of care.
If you have a concern about your child’s heart, talk to your pediatrician about making an appointment.
Learn more
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Posted In Bismarck, Children's, Heart
