Yves d'Udekem, MD, PhD

Division Chief, Cardiac Surgery

Director, Heart Research Institute

Yves d’Udekem, MD, PhD, is a renowned leader in pediatric cardiac surgery whose professional journey encompasses substantial experience across multiple continents. Currently, he serves as division chief of Cardiac Surgery at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., and director of the Children’s National Heart Research Institute. Dr. d’Udekem’s expertise has been shaped by significant clinical and academic roles in Belgium, the United Kingdom, Canada, South Africa, Australia and the United States.

Born in Belgium and holding Canadian and Australian citizenship, Dr. d’Udekem began his medical career with early training in cardiac surgery in Belgium and Toronto. He practiced as a cardiac surgeon in Belgium, caring for both adults and children with congenital heart disease. He advanced his training in congenital heart surgery at the Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children in London, under the guidance of Professor Marc de Leval and other leaders in the field. Dr. d’Udekem further broadened his perspective through collaborative work and training in South Africa.

In Australia, Dr. d’Udekem was recruited as a pediatric heart specialist at The Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne, a center known for its innovation in congenital heart disease care. He established a strong reputation for clinical and academic excellence, playing a leading role in the development of the Australia and New Zealand Fontan Registry, which has advanced knowledge of single ventricle heart conditions. He has authored more than 500 peer-reviewed publications in pediatric cardiovascular surgery.

At Children’s National, Dr. d’Udekem directs heart research at the Children’s National Research Institute, where he organizes an annual research symposium to share advancements and foster collaboration. Clinically, he is advancing the field as chief of cardiac surgery, pioneering techniques in single ventricle procedures, valve repairs, and partial heart transplantation. Additionally, he initiated the Surgical Boot Camp Series, which brings together leading pediatric surgeons from around the world for hands-on education and training. Dr. d’Udekem is also The Baier Family Distinguished Professor of Cardiac Surgery and serves as a professor at the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, contributing to the education of future cardiac specialists.

Dr. d’Udekem is committed to multidisciplinary collaboration and emphasizes providing comprehensive care throughout the patient journey, from outpatient visits and inpatient care to surgery and recovery. His efforts continue to support innovation and education in pediatric cardiac surgery, benefiting patients and advancing the field on a global scale.

• Cardiac Surgery
• Heart and Lung Center