Norton Children’s Cardiovascular Connective Tissue Disorders Clinic

The Norton Children’s Cardiovascular Connective Tissue Disorders Clinic, part of Norton Children’s Heart Institute, provides specialized, multidisciplinary care for children and young adults with inherited connective tissue disorders that affect the heart, aorta and blood vessels.

This clinic is the only pediatric cardiovascular connective tissue disorders program in Kentucky and one of only a few in the country.

Our team focuses on the early diagnosis, ongoing monitoring and treatment of conditions that increase the risk for aortic dilation, aneurysm and aortic dissection. We care for patients from prenatal diagnosis through early adulthood, offering coordinated care close to home in Louisville, Kentucky, and Southern Indiana.

Conditions We Treat

The clinic specializes in inherited and genetic conditions affecting the cardiovascular system, including:

  • Marfan syndrome
  • Loeys-Dietz syndrome
  • Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
  • Familial thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (FTAAD) syndromes
  • Other genetic and familial aortic disorders

Ages We See

  • Prenatal through early adulthood

Multidisciplinary Care in One Location

Because cardiovascular connective tissue disorders can affect multiple body systems, care is coordinated through a multidisciplinary team of pediatric specialists. Each visit is individualized based on your child’s diagnosis, age and needs.

Depending on the condition, your child may see providers from:

  • Pediatric cardiology*
  • Cardiovascular surgery*
  • Genetics*
  • Ophthalmology*
  • Orthopedics*
  • Pulmonology*
  • Rheumatology*
  • Dermatology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Nutritional services (dietitian)
  • Psychology or psychiatry
  • Social work
  • Pain management

*Indicates pediatric specialties with identified local physician partners. Additional specialty partnerships will continue to expand as the clinic grows.

Whenever possible, appointments are coordinated so families can see all specialists needed during a single visit.

Comprehensive, Long-term Care

The Norton Children’s Cardiovascular Connective Tissue Disorders Clinic provides ongoing care over the long term, supporting patients and families at every stage of their health journey. Services include:

  • Comprehensive evaluation and risk assessment
  • Imaging and surveillance of the aorta and blood vessels
  • Genetic evaluation and counseling
  • Education for patients and families
  • Medical management and coordination of surgical care when needed
  • Seamless transition to adult care through our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program

We work closely with your child’s primary care provider and referring physicians to ensure coordinated, continuous care.

Why Choose Norton Children’s?

  • Comprehensive multidisciplinary care in one location
  • Personalized, family-centered care close to home
  • Access to a team of local specialists experienced in rare connective tissue disorders
  • Education and support for patients and families
  • Medical and surgical expertise for complex cardiovascular conditions

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