The Pulmonary Hypertension Program at Manning Family Children’s provides
comprehensive, specialized care for infants, children, adolescents, and
young adults with pulmonary hypertension and related conditions. As the
only dedicated pediatric pulmonary hypertension program in Louisiana and
the Gulf South, our multidisciplinary team offers advanced diagnostic
testing, innovative treatment options, and coordinated care tailored to
each child's unique needs.
About Pulmonary Hypertension
Pulmonary hypertension is a serious and complex condition that causes high
blood pressure in the blood vessels of the lungs. Over time, it can make
it harder for the heart to pump blood effectively and can affect a child’s
breathing, energy level, growth, and overall health.
Because this condition can look different from one child to the next, our
team takes an individualized approach to diagnosis, treatment, and long-term
management. As part of the
Heart Center at Manning Family Children’s, the Pulmonary Hypertension Program brings together experts across multiple
pediatric specialties to support children who may enter care through cardiology,
pulmonology, neonatology, intensive care, or other services.
Our goal is to provide families with clarity, confidence, and the most
appropriate care plan for each child’s unique needs. Treatment may
include advanced testing, medication management, ongoing monitoring, and
collaboration with other specialists depending on each child’s diagnosis
and symptoms.
What makes us different?
Only program in the region Manning Family Children’s Pulmonary Hypertension Program is the only
dedicated pediatric pulmonary hypertension program in Louisiana and across
the Gulf South, providing specialized care for children with this rare
and serious condition.
Multidisciplinary care centered on your child
Because pulmonary hypertension can affect the heart, lungs, growth, and
overall development, children need care from a team that understands the
full scope of the condition. Here, families can feel reassured, knowing
their child’s care is brought together in one place. Our team works
closely across specialties to coordinate care and make the experience
simpler for families.
An individualized approach to care
Children with pulmonary hypertension need care that reflects their age,
diagnosis, growth, and long-term development. Each care plan is built
around the child’s unique needs, not just the condition.
Long-term support for families
Pulmonary hypertension often requires ongoing follow-up and careful monitoring.
Our team partners with families over time, helping them understand the
diagnosis, navigate treatment, and know what to expect as their child grows.
What to expect at your first visit
When your child is evaluation for pulmonary hypertension, our team will
access your child’s symptoms, medical history, current condition,
and care needs so we can better understand the full picture and guide
the next steps.
Depending on your child’s situation, your visit may include:
A detailed review of your child’s symptoms, history, and previous testing
A physical exam and discussion of how pulmonary hypertension may be affecting
your child’s health
Review of labs, imaging, echocardiograms, catheterization results, or outside records
Coordination with other specialists when needed
A discussion of next steps, which may include additional testing, treatment
recommendations, or follow-up planning
Resources for families
A pulmonary hypertension diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Families often
have questions about treatment, daily life, long-term planning, and where
to find trusted support. The following organizations may be helpful as
you learn more.
Pulmonary Hypertension Association (PHA): As the world’s largest pulmonary hypertension organization, PHA
provides support and resources to extend and improve the lives of those
affected by pulmonary hypertension.
The Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Network (PPHNet): PPHNet is a Network of Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Centers and individual
medical professionals focused on all aspects of pediatric pulmonary hypertension.
The goals of the PPHNet include research, education, advocacy, and training.
American Thoracic Society (ATS): ATS is the world's leading medical society dedicated to accelerating
the advancement of global respiratory health through multidisciplinary
collaboration, education, and advocacy.
Meet the team
The Pulmonary Hypertension Program at Manning Family Children’s brings
together physicians and specialists committed to coordinated, compassionate
care for children with complex pulmonary vascular, heart, and lung conditions.
Leaders of the Pulmonary Hypertension Program
Russel Hirsch, MD
Chief of Cardiology,
Co-Director of the Heart Center, Professor of Pediatrics, LSU Health Sciences
Center New Orleans, Pediatric Cardiologist
Manning Family Children's Main Campus
200 Henry Clay Ave.
New Orleans, LA 70118
Phone:504.896.9751 Fax:
504.896.3952
The Manning Family Children’s Cardiology Department welcomes referrals
from a physician or healthcare provider for a newborn, infant, child,
adolescent or young adult. In addition, the department welcomes new patients
and those interested in seeking a second opinion.
Schedule your appointment with a cardiology provider
Scheduling Center Phone: 504.896.2888
Fax: 504.896.2889
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