Biography

Ryan James Butts, M.D., is a pediatric cardiologist who practices with Children's Health℠. Dr. Butts specializes in the treatment of young patients with heart failure and of those in cardiac intensive care. He also monitors and cares for patients who undergo heart transplant surgery.

"I enjoy the challenge of trying to help children recover – so they can grow up to be healthy, strong and active,” says Dr. Butts. "I also enjoy interacting with patients' families and the personal relationships that develop over time."

Dr. Butts serves as lead for the Pediatric Heart Failure Workforce, which is part of the International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantation - a group dedicated to improving patient care.

He also serves as an associate pediatrics professor at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

Dr. Butts earned his medical degree at Medical University of South Carolina in 2005. He completed a pediatrics residency at Baylor College of Medicine in 2008. And, he did a pediatric cardiology fellowship at Medical University of South Carolina in 2011.

Research is important to Dr. Butts. His areas of interest include pediatric heart failure, specifically in patients with Fontan circulation, and improving outcomes after pediatric heart transplant.

"Through research, we can find new ways to treat our young heart patients and move our field forward," says Dr. Butts. "There's no better feeling than being able to help a patient get well."

Dr. Butts decided to become a pediatric doctor because he's always liked science. And he enjoyed working with children as a swim coach throughout high school and college.

When not at the hospital, Dr. Butts enjoys running and swimming. He also stays busy with his own children who are involved in lacrosse, tennis and band.

"With my work at the hospital and spending time with my family, we enjoy a full life," says Dr. Butts.