Initial experience with the implementation of an interdisciplinary clinic for the follow-up of pediatric patients with single ventricle

Mariel L. Foti, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Erica V. Stelmaszewski, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Agustina Del Soldato, Unidad de Condiciones Crónicas Complejas. Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Gisela L. Páez-Salinas, Unidad de Condiciones Crónicas Complejas. Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
M.Guillermina Soraiz, Unidad de Condiciones Crónicas Complejas. Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina
D. Mariela Mouratian, Servicio de Cardiología, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan, Buenos Aires, Argentina

Background: Patients with single-ventricle physiology present one of the most complex congenital heart diseases, with implications that extend beyond strictly cardiologic aspects. Survival has improved due to new technologies, but comprehensive, effective, and sustainable follow-up requires innovative care models. Objective: To describe the implementation and outcomes of an interdisciplinary clinic in a high-complexity public hospital in Argentina. Method: This is a retrospective, longitudinal, descriptive study from the initiation of the interdisciplinary clinic in April 2023 through August 2025. A monthly multidisciplinary care setting was established. The strategy included an organized pre-clinic evaluation, sequential clinical consultations, psychoeducational workshops for families, and therapeutic play sessions. A formalized roadmap and interdisciplinary communication structure were implemented. Results: From April 2023 to August 2025, 81 patients were incorporated into this care model. The median age at the time of first surgery was 16 days. Attendance rates for scheduled visits increased from 70 to 92%. Significant improvements were achieved in care coordination, early detection of cardiac and extracardiac complications, access to complementary studies, and adherence to follow-up. More than 60% of families participated in workshops, creating spaces for support and shared experiences. Conclusion: The interdisciplinary single-ventricle clinic at Hospital de Pediatría SAMIC Juan P. Garrahan represents an innovative and unique model in Argentina, with a positive impact on adherence, early identification of complications, and family engagement.

Keywords: Congenital heart disease. Single ventricle. Comprehensive health care. Interdisciplinary clinic. Pediatric cardiology.