#Patel Children's Heart Institute #Minima Stent #congenital heart defects

Groundbreaking Cardiac Treatment at St. Joseph's Children’s Hospital

St. Joseph's Children's Hospital in Tampa, Florida, has achieved a significant milestone in pediatric cardiac care. The Patel Children’s Heart Institute has become the first medical facility in the southeastern United States to successfully implant a new, specialized cardiac stent designed specifically for infants. This groundbreaking device, known as the Renata Minima stent, addresses the urgent need for innovative solutions in treating congenital heart defects in the youngest patients.

What is the Minima Stent?

The Minima stent is not just another medical device; it represents a revolution in how congenital heart defects are treated in newborns and infants. It is the only stent designed small enough for use in babies, measuring just 1.3 millimeters in diameter—approximately the size of a cocktail straw. This unique stent can be expanded as the child grows, reducing the need for multiple open-heart surgeries throughout their childhood and into adulthood. This innovation is crucial for ensuring that children have the best possible outcomes without undergoing numerous invasive procedures.

A Successful Procedure

The first implantation of the Minima stent took place under the expertise of Dr. Jeremy Ringewald, a pediatric cardiologist at St. Joseph's. The procedure was performed on a 14-month-old infant named Layla Lebovic, who was born with multiple congenital heart defects, including tetralogy of Fallot and pulmonary atresia. These complex conditions typically present significant challenges in treatment.

During the procedure, Dr. Ringewald advanced several sequential Minima stents through a vein in Layla's leg to her right pulmonary artery. The results were remarkable; once deployed, Layla’s pulmonary artery was enlarged to five times its original size. The surgery was a success, and she was discharged just one day later, which is a testament to the efficacy and efficiency of this innovative new treatment.

Heartfelt Gratitude from Families

Layla's mother, Laura Lebovic, expressed profound gratitude toward Dr. Ringewald and the cardiac team at St. Joseph's. She stated, _