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Altit G, Lapointe A, Kipfmueller F, Patel N. Cardiac function in congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Semin Pediatr Surg 2024; 33:151438. [PMID: 39018716 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2024.151438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Cardiac function is known to play critical role in the pathophysiological progression and ultimate clinical outcome of patients with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). While often anatomically normal, the fetal and neonatal heart in CDH can suffer from both right and left ventricular dysfunction. Here we explore the abnormal fetal heart, early postnatal right and left ventricular dysfunction, the interplay between cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, evaluation and echocardiographic assessment of the heart, and therapeutic strategies for managing and supporting the pathophysiologic heart and CDH. Further, we take a common clinical scenario and provide clinically relevant guidance for the diagnosis and management of this complex process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Altit
- Division of Neonatology, Montreal Children's Hospital, McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Canada
| | - Anie Lapointe
- Division of Neonatology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, Children's Hospital University of Bonn, Germany
| | - Neil Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, UK.
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Holden KI, Rintoul NE, McNamara PJ, Harting MT. Congenital diaphragmatic hernia-associated pulmonary hypertension. Semin Pediatr Surg 2024; 33:151437. [PMID: 39018718 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2024.151437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is characterized by a developmental insult which compromises cardiopulmonary embryology and results in a diaphragmatic defect, allowing abdominal organs to herniate into the hemithorax. Among the significant pathophysiologic components of this condition is pulmonary hypertension (PH), alongside pulmonary hypoplasia and cardiac dysfunction. Fetal pulmonary vascular development coincides with lung development, with the pulmonary vasculature evolving alongside lung maturation. However, in CDH, this embryologic development is impaired which, in conjunction with external compression, stifle pulmonary vascular maturation, leading to reduced lung density, increased muscularization of the pulmonary vasculature, abnormal vascular responsiveness, and altered molecular signaling, all contributing to pulmonary arterial hypertension. Understanding CDH-associated PH (CDH-PH) is crucial for development of novel approaches and effective management due to its significant impact on morbidity and mortality. Antenatal and postnatal diagnostic methods aid in CDH risk stratification and, specifically, pulmonary hypertension, including fetal imaging and gas exchange assessments. Management strategies include lung protective ventilation, fluid optimization, pharmacotherapies including pulmonary vasodilators and hemodynamic support, and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) for refractory cases. Longitudinal re-evaluation is an important consideration due to the complexity and dynamic nature of CDH cardiopulmonary physiology. Emerging therapies such as fetal endoscopic tracheal occlusion and pharmacological interventions targeting key CDH pathophysiological mechanisms show promise but require further investigation. The complexity of CDH-PH underscores the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for optimal patient care and improved outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kylie I Holden
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Natalie E Rintoul
- Department of Neonatology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Patrick J McNamara
- Division of Neonatology, University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital, Iowa City, IA, USA
| | - Matthew T Harting
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center and Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, Houston, TX, USA.
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Schroeder L, Soltesz L, Leyens J, Strizek B, Berg C, Mueller A, Kipfmueller F. Vasoactive Management of Pulmonary Hypertension and Ventricular Dysfunction in Neonates Following Complicated Monochorionic Twin Pregnancies: A Single-Center Experience. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 11:548. [PMID: 38790543 PMCID: PMC11120423 DOI: 10.3390/children11050548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Twins resulting from a complicated monochorionic (MC) twin pregnancy are at risk for postnatal evolution of pulmonary hypertension (PH) and cardiac dysfunction (CD). Both pathologies are important contributors to short- and long-term morbidity in these infants. The aim of the present retrospective single-center cohort study was to evaluate the need for vasoactive treatment for PH and CD in these neonates. METHODOLOGY In-born neonates following a complicated MC twin pregnancy admitted to the department of neonatology of the University Children's Hospital Bonn (UKB) between October 2019 and December 2023 were screened for study inclusion. Finally, 70 neonates were included in the final analysis, with 37 neonates subclassified as recipient twins (group A) and 33 neonates as donor twins (group B). RESULTS The overall PH incidence at day of life (DOL) 1 was 17% and decreased to 6% at DOL 7 (p = 0.013), with no PH findings at DOL 28. The overall incidence of CD was 56% at DOL 1 and decreased strongly until DOL 7 (10%, p = 0.015), with no diagnosis of CD at DOL 28. The use of dobutamine, norepinephrine, and vasopressin at DOL 1 until DOL 7 did not differ between the subgroups, whereas the dosing of milrinone was significantly higher in Group B at DOL 1 (p = 0.043). Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) was used in 16% of the cohort, and a levosimendan therapy was administered in 34% of the neonates. One-third of the cohort was treated with oral beta blockers, and in 10%, an intravenous beta blockade (landiolol) was administered. The maximum levosimendan vasoactive-inotropic score (LVISmax) increased from DOL 1 (12.4 [3/27]) to DOL 2 (14.6 [1/68], p = 0.777), with a significant decrease thereafter as measured at DOL 7 (9.5 [2/30], p = 0.011). CONCLUSION Early PH and CD are frequent diagnoses in neonates following a complicated MC twin pregnancy, and an individualized vasoactive treatment strategy is required in the management of these infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Schroeder
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children’s Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany (F.K.)
| | - Leon Soltesz
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children’s Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany (F.K.)
| | - Judith Leyens
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children’s Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany (F.K.)
| | - Brigitte Strizek
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Berg
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Division of Prenatal Medicine and Gynecologic Sonography, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cologne, 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Andreas Mueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children’s Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany (F.K.)
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children’s Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany (F.K.)
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Gowda SH, Patel N. "Heart of the Matter": Cardiac Dysfunction in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia. Am J Perinatol 2024; 41:e1709-e1716. [PMID: 37011900 DOI: 10.1055/a-2067-7925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
Despite advances in caring for neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), mortality and morbidity continues to be high. Additionally, the pathophysiology of cardiac dysfunction in this condition is poorly understood. Postnatal cardiac dysfunction in neonates with CDH may be multifactorial with origins in fetal life. Mechanical obstruction, competition from herniated abdominal organs into thoracic cavity combined with redirection of ductus venosus flow away from patent foramen ovale leading to smaller left-sided structures may be a contributing factor. This shunting decreases left atrial and left ventricular blood volume, which may result in altered micro- and macrovascular aberrations affecting cardiac development in the prenatal period. Direct mass effect from herniated intra-abdominal contents restricting cardiac growth and/or reduced left ventricular preload may contribute independently to left ventricular dysfunction in the absence of right ventricular dysfunction and or pulmonary hypertension. With variable clinical phenotypes of cardiac dysfunction, pulmonary hypertension, and respiratory failure in patients with CDH, there is increased need for individualized diagnosis and tailored therapy. Routine use of therapy such as inhaled nitric oxide and sildenafil that induces significant pulmonary vasodilation may be detrimental in left ventricle dysfunction, whereas in a patient with pure right ventricle dysfunction, they may be beneficial. Targeted functional echocardiography serves as a real-time tool for defining the pathophysiology and aids optimization of vasoactive therapy in affected neonates. KEY POINTS: · Cardiac dysfunction in neonates with CDH is multifactorial.. · Postnatal cardiac dysfunction in patients with CDH has its origins in fetal life.. · Right ventricular dysfunction contributes to systemic hypotension.. · Left ventricular dysfunction contributes to systemic hypotension.. · Supportive therapy should be tailored to clinical phenotype..
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Hernias, Diaphragmatic, Congenital/complications
- Hernias, Diaphragmatic, Congenital/physiopathology
- Infant, Newborn
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/etiology
- Hypertension, Pulmonary/physiopathology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/physiopathology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Right/etiology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/physiopathology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/etiology
- Ventricular Dysfunction, Left/diagnostic imaging
- Echocardiography
- Nitric Oxide
- Hernia, Diaphragmatic/complications
- Hernia, Diaphragmatic/physiopathology
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharada H Gowda
- Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Neil Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
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Pilia E, Silvetti S, Bohane SM, Pusceddu E, Belletti A. Safety of Levosimendan in Pediatric Patients: An Up-to-Date Systematic Review. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2024; 38:820-828. [PMID: 38135567 DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2023.11.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potential risks associated with the use of levosimendan in the pediatric population has not been systematically evaluated. This study aimed to review the available evidence regarding the safety of this treatment. METHODS Bio Med Central, PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Central Register of clinical trials were searched for studies describing levosimendan administration in the pediatric population in any setting. Relevant studies were independently screened, selected, and their data extracted by two investigators. The authors excluded: reviews, meta-analyses, as well as basic research and trials involving patients >18 years old. The primary outcome was the number and the type of adverse side effects reported during levosimendan administration. RESULTS The updated systematic review included 48 studies, enrolling a total of 1,271 pediatric patients who received levosimendan as treatment (790 patients in the 11 studies that reported side effects). The primary adverse effects of levosimendan administration were hypotension and cardiac arrhythmias, particularly tachycardia. Hypotension occurred in approximately 28.9% of patients, while arrhythmia occurred in about 12.3% of patients. Meta analysis of RCTs revealed a rate of all-cause mortality of 2.0% (8 out of 385) in the levosimendan group compared to 3.9% (15 out of 378) in the control group (dobutamine, milrinone or placebo) (risk ratio [RR] = 0.55; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.25-1.21; P = 0.14; I2 = 0%) CONCLUSIONS: Hypotension and cardiac arrhythmia are the most reported side effects of levosimendan in pediatric patients. However, adverse events remain underreported, especially in randomized trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eros Pilia
- Department of Medical Science and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cagliari, Italy; ARNAS G. Brotzu, Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Liver Transplantation Center, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Simona Silvetti
- Dipartimento di Cardioanestesia e Terapia Intensiva, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino IRCCS - IRCCS Cardiovascular Network, Genova, Italy
| | - Shai Marc Bohane
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Pusceddu
- ARNAS G. Brotzu, Anesthesia and Intensive Care Unit, Liver Transplantation Center, Cagliari, Italy
| | - Alessandro Belletti
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, Milan, Italy.
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Moore SS, Keller RL, Altit G. Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Pulmonary Hypertension and Pulmonary Vascular Disease. Clin Perinatol 2024; 51:151-170. [PMID: 38325939 DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2023.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
This review provides a comprehensive summary of the current understanding of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in congenital diaphragmatic hernia, outlining the underlying pathophysiologic mechanisms, methods for assessing PH severity, optimal management strategies, and prognostic implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiran S Moore
- Neonatology, Dana Dwek Children's Hospital, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Weizamann 6, Tel-Aviv, Jaffa 6423906, Israel.
| | - Roberta L Keller
- Neonatology, UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital, 550 16th Street, #5517, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA; Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gabriel Altit
- Neonatology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal Children's Hospital, 1001 Décarie boulevard, Montreal, H4A Quebec; Department of Pediatrics, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Johng S, Fraga MV, Patel N, Kipfmueller F, Bhattacharya A, Bhombal S. Unique Cardiopulmonary Interactions in Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: Physiology and Therapeutic Implications. Neoreviews 2023; 24:e720-e732. [PMID: 37907403 DOI: 10.1542/neo.24-11-e720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) results in abdominal contents entering the thoracic cavity, affecting both cardiac and pulmonary development. Maldevelopment of the pulmonary vasculature occurs within both the ipsilateral lung and the contralateral lung. The resultant bilateral pulmonary hypoplasia and associated pulmonary hypertension are important components of the pathophysiology of this disease that affect outcomes. Despite prenatal referral to specialized high-volume centers, advanced ventilation strategies, pulmonary hypertension management, and the option of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, overall CDH mortality remains between 25% and 30%. With increasing recognition that cardiac dysfunction plays a large role in morbidity and mortality in patients with CDH, it becomes imperative to understand the different clinical phenotypes, thus allowing for individual patient-directed therapies. Further research into therapeutic interventions that address the cardiopulmonary interactions in patients with CDH may lead to improved morbidity and mortality outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandy Johng
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Maria V Fraga
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA
| | - Neil Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | | | - Shazia Bhombal
- Department of Pediatrics, Emory University/Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, Atlanta, GA
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Landolfo F, Giliberti P, De Rose DU, Pugnaloni F, Santisi A, Columbo C, Martini L, Ronchetti MP, Di Chiara L, Toscano A, Gandolfo C, Dotta A, Capolupo I. Use of levosimendan in hemodynamic management of heart failure in two neonates with intracranial arteriovenous shunts: a case series. Ital J Pediatr 2023; 49:141. [PMID: 37840126 PMCID: PMC10577993 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-023-01537-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The hemodynamic status of newborns with intracranial arteriovenous shunts (AVSs) may be extremely complex. Mini-invasive hemodynamic monitoring through innovative techniques such as Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (NIRS) and Pressure Recording Analytical Method (PRAM) may help in understanding hemodynamics in newborns with AVSs. Levosimendan is a calcium sensitizer and inodilator, and it is known to improve ventricular function, but its use in newborns is limited. In our cases, we evaluated the effect of levosimendan on hemodynamics through NIRS and PRAM. CASE PRESENTATION Herein, we report the cases of two neonates with intracranial arteriovenous shunts, in whom we used levosimendan to manage cardiac failure refractory to conventional treatment. Levosimendan was used at a dosage of 0.1 mcg/kg/min for 72 h. Combined use of NIRS and PRAM helped in real-time monitoring of hemodynamic effects; in particular, levosimendan determined significant improvement in myocardium contractility as well as a reduction of heart rate. CONCLUSION In two neonatal cases of AVSs, levosimendan led to an overall hemodynamic stabilization, documented by the combination of NIRS and PRAM. Our results suggest introducing levosimendan as a second-line treatment in cases of severe cardiac dysfunction due to AVSs without improvement using standard treatment strategies. Future prospective and larger studies are highly warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Landolfo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Paola Giliberti
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | | | - Flaminia Pugnaloni
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Alessandra Santisi
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Claudia Columbo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Ludovica Martini
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Maria Paola Ronchetti
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Luca Di Chiara
- Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Alessandra Toscano
- Perinatal Cardiology Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Carlo Gandolfo
- Neuroradiology Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Andrea Dotta
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
| | - Irma Capolupo
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "Bambino Gesù" Children's Hospital IRCCS, Rome, 00165, Italy
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Leyens J, Schroeder L, Geipel A, Berg C, Bo B, Lemloh L, Patel N, Mueller A, Kipfmueller F. Dynamics of pulmonary hypertension severity in the first 48 h in neonates with prenatally diagnosed congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1164473. [PMID: 37342531 PMCID: PMC10277507 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1164473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is one of the major contributing factors to the high morbidity and mortality in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). The severity and duration of postnatal PH are an established risk factor for patient outcome; however, the early postnatal dynamics of PH have not been investigated. This study aims to describe the early course of PH in CDH infants, and its relation to established prognostic markers and outcome measures. Methods We performed a monocentric retrospective review of neonates with prenatally diagnosed CDH, who received three standardized echocardiographic examinations at 2-6 h, 24, and 48 h of life. The degree of PH was graded as one of three categories: mild/no, moderate, or severe PH. The characteristics of the three groups and their course of PH over 48 h were compared using univariate and correlational analyses. Results Of 165 eligible CDH cases, initial PH classification was mild/no in 28%, moderate in 35%, and severe PH in 37%. The course of PH varied markedly based on the initial staging. No patient with initial no/mild PH developed severe PH, required extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)-therapy, or died. Of cases with initial severe PH, 63% had persistent PH at 48 h, 69% required ECMO, and 54% died. Risk factors for any PH included younger gestational age, intrathoracic liver herniation, prenatal fetoscopic endoluminal tracheal occlusion (FETO)-intervention, lower lung to head ratio (LHR), and total fetal lung volume (TFLV). Patients with moderate and severe PH showed similar characteristics, except liver position at 24- (p = 0.042) and 48 h (p = 0.001), mortality (p = 0.001), and ECMO-rate (p = 0.035). Discussion To our knowledge, this is the first study to systematically assess the dynamics of PH in the first postnatal 48 h at three defined time points. CDH infants with initial moderate and severe PH have a high variation in postnatal PH severity over the first 48 h of life. Patients with mild/no PH have less change in PH severity, and an excellent prognosis. Patients with severe PH at any point have a significantly higher risk for ECMO and mortality. Assessing PH within 2-6 h should be a primary goal in the care for CDH neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Judith Leyens
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lukas Schroeder
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Annegret Geipel
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Christoph Berg
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Bartolomeo Bo
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Lotte Lemloh
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Neil Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Mueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children’s Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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Schroeder L, Holcher S, Leyens J, Geipel A, Strizek B, Dresbach T, Mueller A, Kipfmueller F. Evaluation of levosimendan as treatment option in a large case-series of preterm infants with cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension. Eur J Pediatr 2023:10.1007/s00431-023-04971-9. [PMID: 37100959 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-04971-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2023]
Abstract
Levosimendan as a calcium-sensitizer is a promising innovative therapeutical option for the treatment of severe cardiac dysfunction (CD) and pulmonary hypertension (PH) in preterm infants, but no data are available analyzing levosimendan in cohorts of preterm infants. The design/setting of the evaluation is in a large case-series of preterm infants with CD and PH. Data of all preterm infants (gestational age (GA) < 37 weeks) with levosimendan treatment and CD and/or PH in the echocardiographic assessment between 01/2018 and 06/2021 were screened for analysis. The primary clinical endpoint was defined as echocardiographic response to levosimendan. Preterm infants (105) were finally enrolled for further analysis. The preterm infants (48%) were classified as extremely low GA newborns (ELGANs, < 28 weeks of GA) and 73% as very low birth weight infants (< 1500 g, VLBW). The primary endpoint was reached in 71%, without difference regarding GA or BW. The incidence of moderate or severe PH decreased from baseline to follow-up (24 h) in about 30%, with a significant decrease in the responder group (p < 0.001). The incidence of left ventricular dysfunction and bi-ventricular dysfunction decreased significantly from baseline to follow-up (24 h) in the responder-group (p = 0.007, and p < 0.001, respectively). The arterial lactate level decreased significantly from baseline (4.7 mmol/l) to 12 h (3.6 mmol/l, p < 0.05), and 24 h (3.1 mmol/l, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Levosimendan treatment is associated with an improvement of both CD and PH in preterm infants, with a stabilization of the mean arterial pressure during the treatment and a significant decrease of arterial lactate levels. Future prospective trials are highly warranted. What is Known: • Levosimendan as a calcium-sensitizer and inodilator is known to improve the low cardiac output syndrome (LCOS), and improves ventricular dysfunction, and PH, both in pediatric as well as in adult populations. Data related to critically ill neonates without major cardiac surgery and preterm infants are not available. What is New: • This study evaluated the effect of levosimendan on hemodynamics, clinical scores, echocardiographic severity parameters, and arterial lactate levels in a case-series of 105 preterm infants for the first time. Levosimendan treatment in preterm infants is associated with a rapid improvement of CD and PH, an increase of the mean arterial pressure, and a significant decrease in arterial lactate levels, as surrogate marker for a LCOS. • How this study might affect research, practice, or policy. As no data are available regarding the use of levosimendan in this population, our results hopefully animate the research community to conduct future prospective trails analyzing levosimendan in randomized controlled trials (RCT) and observational control studies. Additionally, our results potentially motivate clinicians to introduce levosimendan as second second-line therapy in cases of severe CD and PH in preterm infants without improvement using standard treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Schroeder
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany.
| | - Stanley Holcher
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Judith Leyens
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Annegret Geipel
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Brigitte Strizek
- Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Till Dresbach
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas Mueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine, University Children's Hospital Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, D-53127, Bonn, Germany
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De Bie FR, Avitabile CM, Joyeux L, Hedrick HL, Russo FM, Basurto D, Deprest J, Rintoul NE. Neonatal and fetal therapy of congenital diaphragmatic hernia-related pulmonary hypertension. Arch Dis Child Fetal Neonatal Ed 2022; 107:458-466. [PMID: 34952853 DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-322617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) is a complex malformation characterised by a triad of pulmonary hypoplasia, pulmonary hypertension (PH) and cardiac ventricular dysfunction. Much of the mortality and morbidity in CDH is largely accounted for by PH, especially when persistent beyond the neonatal period and refractory to available treatment. Gentle ventilation, haemodynamic optimisation and pulmonary vasodilation constitute the foundations of neonatal treatment of CDH-related PH (CDH-PH). Moreover, early prenatal diagnosis, the ability to assess severity and the developmental nature of the condition generate the perfect rationale for fetal therapy. Shortcomings of currently available clinical therapies in combination with increased understanding of CDH pathophysiology have spurred experimental drug trials, exploring new therapeutic mechanisms to tackle CDH-PH. We herein discuss clinically available neonatal and fetal therapies specifically targeting CDH-PH and review the most promising experimental treatments and future research avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix R De Bie
- Department of Pediatric General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA .,My FetUZ, Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Catherine M Avitabile
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Cardiology, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Luc Joyeux
- My FetUZ, Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Holly L Hedrick
- Department of Pediatric General, Thoracic, and Fetal Surgery, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Francesca M Russo
- My FetUZ, Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - David Basurto
- My FetUZ, Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Jan Deprest
- My FetUZ, Department of Development and Regeneration, Cluster Woman and Child, Biomedical Sciences, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division Woman and Child, Fetal Medicine Unit, KU Leuven University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Flanders, Belgium
| | - Natalie E Rintoul
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Diagnosis & management of pulmonary hypertension in congenital diaphragmatic hernia. Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 27:101383. [PMID: 35995665 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2022.101383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) contributes to neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a key component of CDH pathophysiology and critical consideration for management and therapeutic options. PH associated with CDH has traditionally been attributed to pulmonary vascular maldevelopment and associated lung parenchymal hypoplasia, leading to pre-capillary increase in pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). However, there is increasing recognition that left ventricular hypoplasia, dysfunction and elevated end diastolic pressure may contribute to post-capillary pulmonary hypertension in CDH patients. The interplay of these mechanisms and associated dysfunction in the right and left ventricles results in variable hemodynamic phenotypes in CDH. Clinical assessment of individual phenotype may help guide personalized management strategies, including effective use of pulmonary vasodilators and extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation. Ongoing investigation of the underlying mechanisms of PH in CDH, and efficacy of physiology-based treatment approaches may support improvement in outcomes in this challenging condition.
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Echocardiographic Assessment of Pulmonary Hypertension in Neonates with Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia Using Pulmonary Artery Flow Characteristics. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11113038. [PMID: 35683426 PMCID: PMC9181044 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11113038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2022] [Revised: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Assessment of pulmonary hypertension (PH) is essential in neonates with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH). Echocardiography is widely established to quantify PH severity, but currently used parameters have inherent limitations. The aim of our study was to investigate the prognostic utility of the index of the pulmonary artery acceleration time to the right ventricular ejection time (PAAT:ET) in CDH neonates assessed using echocardiography. Methods: PAAT:ET values were prospectively measured in CDH neonates on admission, on day of life (DOL) 2 and DOL 5−7. Optimal cut-off values to predict mortality and need for ECMO were calculated and PAAT:ET values were compared between non-ECMO survivors, ECMO-survivors, and ECMO-non-survivors. Results: 87 CDH neonates were enrolled and 39 patients required ECMO therapy. At baseline, PAAT:ET values were significantly lower in ECMO patients compared to non-ECMO patients (p < 0.001). ECMO survivors and ECMO non-survivors had similar values at baseline (p = 0.967) and DOL 2 (p = 0.124) but significantly higher values at DOL 5−7 (p = 0.003). Optimal PAAT:ET cut-off for predicting ECMO was 0.290 at baseline and 0.310 for predicting non-survival in patients on ECMO at DOL 5−7. Conclusion: PAAT:ET is a feasible parameter for early risk assessment in CDH neonates.
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Patel N, Massolo AC, Kraemer US, Kipfmueller F. The heart in congenital diaphragmatic hernia: Knowns, unknowns, and future priorities. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:890422. [PMID: 36052357 PMCID: PMC9424541 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.890422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing recognition that the heart is a key contributor to the pathophysiology of congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH), in conjunction with developmental abnormalities of the lung and pulmonary vasculature. Investigations to date have demonstrated altered fetal cardiac morphology, notably relative hypoplasia of the fetal left heart, as well as early postnatal right and left ventricular dysfunction which appears to be independently associated with adverse outcomes. However, many more unknowns remain, not least an understanding of the genetic and cellular basis for cardiac dysplasia and dysfunction in CDH, the relationship between fetal, postnatal and long-term cardiac function, and the impact on other parts of the body especially the developing brain. Consensus on how to measure and classify cardiac function and pulmonary hypertension in CDH is also required, potentially using both non-invasive imaging and biomarkers. This may allow routine assessment of the relative contribution of cardiac dysfunction to individual patient pathophysiological phenotype and enable better, individualized therapeutic strategies incorporating targeted use of fetal therapies, cardiac pharmacotherapies, and extra-corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Collaborative, multi-model approaches are now required to explore these unknowns and fully appreciate the role of the heart in CDH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Patel
- Department of Neonatology, Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ulrike S Kraemer
- Intensive Care Unit, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Erasmus MC-Sophia Children's Hospital, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Florian Kipfmueller
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
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