Researchers develop visual tools for improved surgery on newborn babies.

It said the disease was known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and any patients with HLHS, the left side of the heart is much smaller than usual and cannot pump enough blood to the body.

It said the disease was known as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and any patients with HLHS, the left side of the heart is much smaller than usual and cannot pump enough blood to the body.

It identified the early symptoms to include difficulty in breathing, weak pulse and blueish skin.

"Without treatment, babies with HLHS quickly become seriously ill.

"All babies with HLHS need a series of life-saving operations during the first few years of life.

"However, the severity of HLHS varies and it's not clear which surgical technique works best in each situation,’’ it said.

The team of scientists that conducted the research said the findings has given surgeons the tools they need to select the best treatment plan for each individual baby and improving their chance of survival.