Most parents assume that after "corrective" surgery has been done the problem is solved, the child is well. Only rarely this is the case. Let me explain with an example: if your child has a heart valve that does not open properly (it is "stenotic"), then this valve is not only too small but the valve tissue is also too thick, it is scarred. This valve can be opened up to allow better blood flow, but it cannot be converted into a normal valve with normal valve tissue. Even valve replacement would not solve this problem because mechanical valves do not perform well on the long run and transplanted valves tend to deteriorate as well. So you must be aware that even after complete successful surgery there is often residual disease which may require medication, restriction in the excercise limits or even repeat surgery. Fortunately, some heart problems can be completely restored by the surgeon, but even then the surgical scar will be a reminder of the past.