Congenital heart surgery outcomes in Down syndrome: analysis of a national clinical database

Trisomy 21 and Congenital Heart Disease: Impact on Health and Functional Outcomes From Birth Through Adolescence: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Due to improvements in recognition and management of their multisystem disease, the long-term survival of infants, children, and adolescents with trisomy 21 and congenital heart disease now matches children with congenital heart disease and no genetic condition in many scenarios. Although this improved survival is a triumph, individuals with trisomy 21 and congenital heart disease have unique and complex care needs in the domains of physical, developmental, and psychosocial health, which affect functional status and quality of life. Pulmonary hypertension and single ventricle heart disease are 2 known cardiovascular conditions that reduce life expectancy in individuals with trisomy 21. Multisystem involvement with respiratory, endocrine, gastrointestinal, hematological, neurological, and sensory systems can interact with cardiovascular health concerns to amplify adverse effects. Neurodevelopmental, psychological, and functional challenges can also affect quality of life. A highly coordinated interdisciplinary care team model, or medical home, can help address these complex and interactive conditions from infancy through the transition to adult care settings. The purpose of this Scientific Statement is to identify ongoing cardiovascular and multisystem, developmental, and psychosocial health concerns for children with trisomy 21 and congenital heart disease from birth through adolescence and to provide a framework for monitoring and management to optimize quality of life and functional status.

Genetic syndromes associated with congenital heart disease

Congenital heart defects are the most common type of birth defect, affecting 1% of live births. The underlying cause of congenital heart disease is frequently unknown. However, advances in human genetics and genome technologies have helped expand congenital heart disease pathogenesis knowledge during the last few decades. When the cardiac defects are part of a genetic syndrome, they are associated with extracardiac conditions and require multidisciplinary care and surveillance. Some genetic syndromes can have subtle clinical findings and remain undiagnosed well into adulthood. Each syndrome is associated with specific congenital and acquired comorbidities and a particular clinical risk profile. A timely diagnosis is essential for risk stratification, surveillance of associated conditions and counselling, particularly during family planning. However, genetic testing and counselling indications can be challenging to identify in clinical practice. This document intends to provide an overview of the most clinically relevant syndromes to consider, focusing on the phenotype and genotype diagnosis, outcome data, clinical guidelines and implications for care.

From genes to therapy: A comprehensive exploration of congenital heart disease through the lens of genetics and emerging technologies

Congenital heart disease (CHD) affects approximately 1 % of live births worldwide, making it the most common congenital anomaly in newborns. Recent advancements in genetics and genomics have significantly deepened our understanding of the genetics of CHDs. While the majority of CHD etiology remains unclear, evidence consistently indicates that genetics play a significant role in its development. CHD etiology holds promise for enhancing diagnosis and developing novel therapies to improve patient outcomes. In this review, we explore the contributions of both monogenic and polygenic factors of CHDs and highlight the transformative impact of emerging technologies on these fields. We also summarized the state-of-the-art techniques, including targeted next-generation sequencing (NGS), whole genome and whole exome sequencing (WGS, WES), single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and others, that have revolutionized our understanding of cardiovascular disease genetics both from diagnosis perspective and from disease mechanism perspective in children and young adults. These molecular diagnostic techniques have identified new genes and chromosomal regions involved in syndromic and non-syndromic CHD, enabling a more defined explanation of the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms. As our knowledge and technologies continue to evolve, they promise to enhance clinical outcomes and reduce the CHD burden worldwide.

Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis in a pediatric patient with down syndrome

BACKGROUND

Isolated pulmonary valve endocarditis (IPE) accounts for less than 2% of all infective endocarditis patients. It is commonly associated with several predisposing factors, including intravenous drug use (IVDU) and congenital heart disease. The most common causative pathogens of IPE are Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus viridans. We report a Down's syndrome patient with IPE and with no standard risk factors caused by the rare pathogen Acinetobacter spp. This led to respiratory failure and systemic infection due to septic pulmonary emboli. Early elective surgery was decided upon as the patient was no longer responding to medical therapy, and his clinical condition was worsening over time.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 15-year-old male with Down syndrome and no underlying heart defect presented with a 3-month history of episodic fever, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed large vegetation on the pulmonary valve leaflet, another mobile mass at the pulmonary artery bifurcation, and severe pulmonary regurgitation. Serial blood cultures isolated Acinetobacter spp. Despite initial antibiotic therapy, the patient continued to have sepsis, unresolved vegetations, and developed life-threatening complications and respiratory distress, which convinced us to perform a pulmonary valve replacement surgery with a homograft. After surgery, the patient recovered and was discharged on the ninth postoperative day (POD).

CONCLUSION

This report highlights IPE's diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, alongside the importance of a comprehensive cardiopulmonary workup in patients with unexplained fever, sepsis, and pulmonary symptoms, even without typical risk factors. Based on the patient's aggravating condition despite medical treatment, early surgical intervention and pulmonary valve replacement were deemed crucial. However, there still needs to be a definitive guideline on when and how surgery should be performed in patients with complicated IPE, especially in pediatric patients.

Nationwide hospitalizations of patients with down syndrome and congenital heart disease over a 15-year period

Down syndrome is one of the most common genetic diseases, generally associated with an increased probability of congenital heart diseases. This increased risk contributes to escalated levels of morbidity and mortality. In this study, we sought to analyze nationwide data of pediatric and adult patients with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease over a 15-year period. Data obtained from the hospital discharge form between 2001 and 2016 of patients diagnosed with Down syndrome in Italy and at least one congenital heart disease were included. Information on 12362 admissions of 6527 patients were included. Age at first admission was 6.2 ± 12.8 years and was a predictor of mortality (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13-2.03, p = 0.006). 3923 (60.1%) patients underwent only one admission, while 2604 (39.9%) underwent multiple (> 1) admissions. There were 5846 (47.3%) admissions for cardiac related symptoms. Multiple admissions (SHR: 3.13; 95% CI: 2.99, 3.27; P < 0.01) and cardiac admissions (SHR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.92, 2.09; P < 0.01) were associated with an increased risk of additional potential readmissions. There was an increased risk of mortality for patients who had cardiac admissions (HR = 1.45, 95% CI: 1.08-1.94, p = 0.012), and for those who underwent at least 1 cardiac surgical procedure (HR = 1.51, 95% CI 1.13-2.03, p = 0.006).

CONCLUSIONS

A younger age at first admission is a predictor for mortality in patients with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease. If patients undergo more than one admission, the risk of further readmissions increases. There is a pivotal role for heart disease in influencing the hospitalization rate and subsequent mortality.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Down syndrome individuals often face an increased risk of congenital heart diseases. • Congenital heart diseases contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality in Down syndrome patients.

WHAT IS NEW

• This study analyzes nationwide data covering a 15-year period of pediatric and adult patients in Italy with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease. • It identifies a younger age at first admission as a predictor for mortality in these patients, emphasizing the criticality of early intervention. • Demonstrates a correlation between multiple admissions, particularly those related to cardiac issues, and an increased risk of further readmissions, providing insights into the ongoing healthcare needs of these individuals.

Cardiopulmonary Phenotypes and Protein Signatures in Children With Down Syndrome

Pulmonary disease, lower respiratory tract infection, and pneumonia are the largest causes of morbidity and mortality in individuals with Down syndrome (DS), but whether pulmonary diagnoses in children with DS are common and occur independently of cardiac disease and pulmonary hypertension (PH) is unknown. Cardiopulmonary phenotypes were examined in a cohort of 1248 children with DS. Aptamer-based proteomic analysis of blood was performed in a subset (n = 120) of these children. By the age of 10 years, half of the patients in this cohort (n = 634, 50.8%) had co-occurring pulmonary diagnoses. That proteins and related pathways were distinct between children with pulmonary diagnoses and those with cardiac disease and/or PH may indicate that pulmonary diagnoses appear to occur independently of cardiac disease and PH. Heparin sulfate-glycosaminoglycandegradation, nicotinate metabolism, and elastic fiber formation were ranked highest in the group with pulmonary diagnoses.

Phenotyping Down syndrome: discovery and predictive modelling with electronic medical records

BACKGROUND

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have a heightened risk for various co-occurring health conditions, including congenital heart disease (CHD). In this two-part study, electronic medical records (EMRs) were leveraged to examine co-occurring health conditions among individuals with DS (Study 1) and to investigate health conditions linked to surgical intervention among DS cases with CHD (Study 2).

METHODS

De-identified EMRs were acquired from Vanderbilt University Medical Center and facilitated creating a cohort of N = 2282 DS cases (55% females), along with comparison groups for each study. In Study 1, DS cases were one-by-two sex and age matched with samples of case-controls and of individuals with other intellectual and developmental difficulties (IDDs). The phenome-disease association study (PheDAS) strategy was employed to reveal co-occurring health conditions in DS versus comparison groups, which were then ranked for how often they are discussed in relation to DS using the PubMed database and Novelty Finding Index. In Study 2, a subset of DS individuals with CHD [N = 1098 (48%)] were identified to create longitudinal data for N = 204 cases with surgical intervention (19%) versus 204 case-controls. Data were included in predictive models and assessed which model-based health conditions, when more prevalent, would increase the likelihood of surgical intervention.

RESULTS

In Study 1, relative to case-controls and those with other IDDs, co-occurring health conditions among individuals with DS were confirmed to include heart failure, pulmonary heart disease, atrioventricular block, heart transplant/surgery and primary pulmonary hypertension (circulatory); hypothyroidism (endocrine/metabolic); and speech and language disorder and Alzheimer's disease (neurological/mental). Findings also revealed more versus less prevalent co-occurring health conditions in individuals with DS when comparing with those with other IDDs. Findings with high Novelty Finding Index were abnormal electrocardiogram, non-rheumatic aortic valve disorders and heart failure (circulatory); acid-base balance disorder (endocrine/metabolism); and abnormal blood chemistry (symptoms). In Study 2, the predictive models revealed that among individuals with DS and CHD, presence of health conditions such as congestive heart failure (circulatory), valvular heart disease and cardiac shunt (congenital), and pleural effusion and pulmonary collapse (respiratory) were associated with increased likelihood of surgical intervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Research efforts using EMRs and rigorous statistical methods could shed light on the complexity in health profile among individuals with DS and other IDDs and motivate precision-care development.

Analysis of Down syndrome newborn outcomes in three neonatal intensive care units in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to analyze the outcomes of newborns with Down syndrome admitted to three neonatal intensive care units in the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted by analyzing the medical records between 2014 and 2018 of newborns with Down syndrome admitted to three neonatal intensive care units. The following variables were analyzed: maternal and perinatal data, neonatal malformations, neonatal intensive care unit intercurrences, and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 119 newborns with Down syndrome were recruited, and 112 were selected for analysis. The most common maternal age group was >35 years (72.07%), the most common type of delivery was cesarean section (83.93%), and the majority of cases were male (53.57%). The most common reasons for neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization were congenital heart disease (57.66%) and prematurity (23.21%). The most common form of feeding was a combination of human milk and formula (83.93%). The second most common malformation was duodenal atresia (9.82%). The most common complications during neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization were transient tachypnea of the newborn (63.39%), hypoglycemia (18.75%), pulmonary hypertension (7.14%), and sepsis (7.14%). The mean length of stay in the neonatal intensive care unit was 27 days. The most common outcome was discharge (82.14%). Furthermore, 12.50% of newborns were transferred to an external neonatal intensive care unit, and 6% died.

CONCLUSION

Newborns with Down syndrome are more likely to be admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit, and the length of hospital stay is longer due to complications related to congenital malformations common to this syndrome and prematurity.

Outcomes of atrioventricular septal defects with and without down syndrome: analysis of the national inpatient database

BACKGROUND

Controversial data exist about the impact of Down syndrome on outcomes after surgical repair of atrioventricular septal defect.

AIMS

(A) assess trends and outcomes of atrioventricular septal defect with and without Down syndrome and (B) determine risk factors associated with adverse outcomes after atrioventricular septal defect repair.

METHODS

We queried The National Inpatient Sample using International Classification of Disease codes for patients with atrioventricular septal defect < 1 year of age from 2000 to 2018. Patients' characteristics, co-morbidities, mortality, and healthcare utilisation were evaluated by comparing those with versus without Down syndrome.

RESULTS

In total, 2,318,706 patients with CHD were examined; of them, 61,101 (2.6%) had atrioventricular septal defect. The incidence of hospitalisation in infants with atrioventricular septal defect ranged from 4.5 to 7.5% of all infants hospitalised with CHD per year. A total of 33,453 (54.7%) patients were associated with Down syndrome. Double outlet right ventricle, coarctation of the aorta, and tetralogy of Fallot were the most commonly associated with CHD in 6.9, 5.7, and 4.3% of patients, respectively. Overall atrioventricular septal defect mortality was 6.3%. Multivariate analysis revealed that prematurity, low birth weight, pulmonary hypertension, and heart block were associated with mortality. Down syndrome was associated with a higher incidence of pulmonary hypertension (4.3 versus 2.8%, p < 0.001), less arrhythmia (6.6 versus 11.2%, p < 0.001), shorter duration for mechanical ventilation, shorter hospital stay, and less perioperative mortality (2.4 versus 11.1%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Trends in atrioventricular septal defect hospitalisation had been stable over time. Perioperative mortality in atrioventricular septal defect was associated with prematurity, low birth weight, pulmonary hypertension, heart block, acute kidney injury, and septicaemia. Down syndrome was present in more than half of atrioventricular septal defect patients and was associated with a higher incidence of pulmonary hypertension but less arrhythmia, lower mortality, shorter hospital stay, and less resource utilisation.

Development of pulmonary hypertension remains a major hurdle to corrective surgery in Down syndrome

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality encountered in clinical practice with 50% of them having associated congenital heart disease (CHD). Shunt lesions account for around 75% of all CHDs in Down syndrome. Down syndrome patients, especially with large shunts are particularly predisposed to early development of severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) compared with shunt lesions in general population. This necessitates timely surgical correction which remains the only viable option to prevent long term morbidity and mortality. However, despite clear recommendations, there is wide gap between actual practice and fear of underlying PH which often leads to surgical refusals in Down syndrome even when the shunt is reversible. Another peculiarity is that Down syndrome patients can develop PH even after successful correction of shunt. It is not uncommon to come across Down syndrome patients with uncorrected shunts in adulthood with irreversible PH at which stage intracardiac repair is contraindicated and the only option available is a combined heart-lung transplant. However, despite the guidelines laid by authorities, the rates of cardiac transplant in adult Down syndrome remain dismal largely attributable to the high prevalence of intellectual disability in them. The index case presents a real-world scenario highlighting the impact of severe PH on treatment strategies and discrimination driven by the fear of worse outcomes in these patients.

Human Genetics of Ventricular Septal Defect

Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are recognized as one of the commonest congenital heart diseases (CHD), accounting for up to 40% of all cardiac malformations, and occur as isolated CHDs as well as together with other cardiac and extracardiac congenital malformations in individual patients and families. The genetic etiology of VSD is complex and extraordinarily heterogeneous. Chromosomal abnormalities such as aneuploidy and structural variations as well as rare point mutations in various genes have been reported to be associated with this cardiac defect. This includes both well-defined syndromes with known genetic cause (e.g., DiGeorge syndrome and Holt-Oram syndrome) and so far undefined syndromic forms characterized by unspecific symptoms. Mutations in genes encoding cardiac transcription factors (e.g., NKX2-5 and GATA4) and signaling molecules (e.g., CFC1) have been most frequently found in VSD cases. Moreover, new high-resolution methods such as comparative genomic hybridization enabled the discovery of a high number of different copy number variations, leading to gain or loss of chromosomal regions often containing multiple genes, in patients with VSD. In this chapter, we will describe the broad genetic heterogeneity observed in VSD patients considering recent advances in this field.

Using novel data linkage of congenital heart disease biobank data with administrative health data to identify cardiovascular outcomes to inform genomic analysis

Introduction

Contemporary care of congenital heart disease (CHD) is largely standardised, however there is heterogeneity in post-surgical outcomes that may be explained by genetic variation. Data linkage between a CHD biobank and routinely collected administrative datasets is a novel method to identify outcomes to explore the impact of genetic variation.

Objective

Use data linkage to identify and validate patient outcomes following surgical treatment for CHD.

Methods

Data linkage between clinical and biobank data of children born from 2001-2014 that had a procedure for CHD in New South Wales, Australia, with hospital discharge data, education and death data. The children were grouped according to CHD lesion type and age at first cardiac surgery. Children in each 'lesion/age at surgery group' were classified into 'favourable' and 'unfavourable' cardiovascular outcome groups based on variables identified in linked administrative data including; total time in intensive care, total length of stay in hospital, and mechanical ventilation time up to 5 years following the date of the first cardiac surgery. A blind medical record audit of 200 randomly chosen children from 'favourable' and 'unfavourable' outcome groups was performed to validate the outcome groups.

Results

Of the 1872 children in the dataset that linked to hospital or death data, 483 were identified with a 'favourable' cardiovascular outcome and 484 were identified as having a 'unfavourable' cardiovascular outcome. The medical record audit found concordant outcome groups for 182/192 records (95%) compared to the outcome groups categorized using the linked data.

Conclusions

The linkage of a curated biobank dataset with routinely collected administrative data is a reliable method to identify outcomes to facilitate a large-scale study to examine genetic variance. These genetic hallmarks could be used to identify patients who are at risk of unfavourable cardiovascular outcomes, to inform strategies for prevention and changes in clinical care.

Utility of Screening Fetal Echocardiograms at a Single Institution Following Normal Obstetric Ultrasound in Fetuses with Down Syndrome

Fetal echocardiograms (F-echo) are recommended in all pregnancies when the fetus has Down syndrome (DS) even if there was a prior obstetric scan (OB-scan) that was normal. The utility of a screening F-echo in this high-risk population when an OB-scan is normal is unknown. Goal of this study was to evaluate if any diagnosis of a critical congenital heart disease (CHD) was missed in a fetus with DS who had a normal OB-scan. Secondary goal was to determine if any CHD was missed postnatally when an OB-scan was read as normal. Retrospective chart review of all fetuses that had a F-echo whose indication was DS between 1/1/2010 to 6/30/2022 was performed. Fetuses were included if they had an OB-scan that was read as normal and had a F-echo. Postnatal transthoracic echocardiogram (pTTE) was reviewed when available. Critical CHD was defined as CHD requiring catheterization or surgical intervention < 1 month of age. One hundred twenty-two F-echo on fetuses with DS were evaluated, of which 48 met inclusion criteria. OB-scan was performed at 20.4 ± 4.5 weeks gestational age and F-echo was performed at 24.0 ± 4.6 weeks gestational age. No patient with a normal OB-scan had a diagnosis of a critical CHD by F-echo (n = 48, negative predictive value = 100%). Evaluating those patients that had an OB-scan and a pTTE (n = 38), 14 patients were diagnosed with CHD (muscular ventricular septal defect (VSD) n = 5, perimembraneous VSD n = 3, secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) n = 2, primum ASD n = 1, transitional atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) n = 2, and aortic valve abnormality n = 1; negative predictive value = 63.2%). F-echo correctly diagnosed 4 of the 14 missed OB-scan CHD (perimembraneous VSD n = 2, muscular VSD n = 1, and transitional AVSD n = 1). Critical CHD was not missed with a normal OB-scan in this high-risk population. F-echo also missed the majority of CHD when an OB-scan was read as normal. The cost/benefit of screening F-echo in fetuses with DS should be evaluated if a normal OB-scan has been performed, considering all these patients would have a pTTE performed per guidelines.

Recent Advances in Pediatric Pulmonary Hypertension: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment

PURPOSE

Pediatric pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition characterized by elevated pulmonary arterial pressure, which has the potential to be life-limiting. The etiology of pediatric PH varies. When compared with adult cohorts, the etiology is often multifactorial, with contributions from prenatal, genetic, and developmental factors. This review aims to provide an up-to-date overview of the causes and classification of pediatric PH, describe current therapeutics in pediatric PH, and discuss upcoming and necessary research in pediatric PH.

METHODS

PubMed was searched for articles relating to pediatric pulmonary hypertension, with a particular focus on articles published within the past 10 years. Literature was reviewed for pertinent areas related to this topic.

FINDINGS

The evaluation and approach to pediatric PH are unique when compared with that of adults, in large part because of the different, often multifactorial, causes of the disease in children. Collaborative registry studies have found that the most common disease causes include developmental lung disease and subsets of pulmonary arterial hypertension, which includes genetic variants and PH associated with congenital heart disease. Treatment with PH-targeted therapies in pediatrics is often guided by extrapolation of adult data, small clinical studies in pediatrics, and/or expert consensus opinion. We review diagnostic considerations and treatment in some of the more common pediatric subpopulations of patients with PH, including developmental lung diseases, congenital heart disease, and trisomy 21.

IMPLICATIONS

The care of pediatric patients with PH requires consideration of unique pediatric-specific factors. With significant variability in disease etiology, ongoing efforts are needed to optimize treatment strategies based on disease phenotype and guide evidence-based practices.

Narrowing the Survival Gap: Trends in Survival of Individuals with Down Syndrome with and without Congenital Heart Defects Born 1979 to 2018

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the hypothesis that childhood survival for individuals with Down syndrome (DS) and congenital heart defects (CHDs) has improved in recent years, approaching the survival of those with DS without CHDs.

STUDY DESIGN

Individuals with DS born from 1979 to 2018 were identified through the Metropolitan Atlanta Congenital Defects Program, a population-based birth defects surveillance system administered by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Survival analysis was performed to evaluate predictors of mortality for those with DS.

RESULTS

The cohort included 1671 individuals with DS; 764 had associated CHDs. The 5-year survival in those with DS with CHD improved steadily among individuals born in the 1980s through the 2010s (from 85% to 93%; P = .01), but remained stable (96% to 95%; P = .97) in those with DS without CHDs. The presence of a CHD was not associated with mortality through 5 years of age for those born 2010 or later (hazard ratio, 2.63; 95% CI, 0.95-8.37). In multivariable analyses, atrioventricular septal defects were associated with early (<1 year) and late (>5 year) mortality, whereas ventricular septal defects were associated with intermediate (1-5 years) mortality and atrial septal defects with late mortality, when adjusting for other risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

The gap in 5-year survival between children with DS with and without CHDs has improved over the last 4 decades. Survival after 5 years remains lower for those with CHDs, although longer follow-up is needed to determine if this difference lessens for those born in the more recent years.

[Congenital heart disease in Down's syndrome]

Background

Down syndrome is the most common chromosomal abnormality, it is associated with a wide variety of congenital heart defects, being considered as clinical elements of high infant morbidity and mortality. Objective.

Objective

To describe the clinical outcomes of patients with Down syndrome undergoing surgery and interventionism as treatment for congenital heart disease at this Institution.

Material and methods

368 patients with Down syndrome and associated congenital heart disease were diagnosed. The variables studied were weight, stature, sex, age, type of heart disease, corrective procedure, length of stay in the hospital and intensive care unit, morbidity and mortality.

Results

368 pediatric patients underwent surgical or interventional correction. Of which 197 (54%) were female, the median age was 24 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 14-48) in the surgical group and 36 months (IQR: 17-85) in the interventional group. The most frequent congenital heart diseases were: PCA (31%), IVC (28%), CAV (20%), ASD (16%) and tetralogy of Fallot with 4% respectively. Hospital stay was 9 days (IQR: 7-15) in the surgical group and 3 days (IQR: 2-5) in the hemodynamic group. Morbidities were postoperative infection in 30 patients (14%) and complete atrioventricular block in 19 patients (9%). Overall mortality including both surgical and interventional was 2%.

Conclusions

The therapeutic, surgical and interventional results in children with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease have improved very satisfactorily. The lower prevalence of the atrioventricular canal in the Mexican population is noteworthy. It is essential to carry out a cardiological evaluation of children with Down syndrome and those with congenital heart disease to correct them in a timely manner to promote survival and quality of life.

Does Down syndrome influence the outcomes of congenital cardiac surgery? A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Congenital cardiac surgery for individuals with Down syndrome (DS) has historically occurred at a reduced frequency. Little data are available regarding long-term post-congenital cardiac surgical outcomes. Limited sample sizes and clinical heterogeneity require a pooled analysis approach.

AIMS

To compare long-term outcomes post-congenital heart surgery between adults with and without DS.

METHODS

Databases (Medline, Embase, and PubMed) were searched utilizing terms related to DS and congenital heart disease.Studies that enrolled adults (>18 years) with operated congenital heart disease and compared long-term outcomes with respect to DS presence were included. All study designs were included, but those with limited/peri-operative follow-up, non-English texts, case studies, and literature reviews were excluded.Blinded screening, data extraction, and quality assessment were independently conducted by two reviewers. QUIPS criteria were used for risk of bias analysis. Both random- and fixed-effects models were used for meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 23 studies (n = 10 466) were included. Risk of bias was frequently high due to unblinded retrospective study designs and analyses limited in adjustment for other prognostic factors.Meta-analysis demonstrated no effect of DS on long-term mortality [hazard ratio (HR) 0.86, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 0.6-1.23], to a maximum described follow-up of 38 years. Lower cardiac reoperation risk (HR 0.6, 95% CI 0.46-0.78) for individuals with DS was found on pooled analysis. Meta-analysis was limited by between-study variation.

CONCLUSION

DS does not affect post-congenital cardiac surgical survival in adulthood. Reduced reoperation may reflect challenges in assessing functional and symptomatic status and/or concerns regarding perceived reoperation difficulties or likely benefits.

Anesthetic Considerations for Adult Patients With Both Down Syndrome and Congenital Heart Disease Undergoing Noncardiac Surgery: A Review Article

The population of adult patients with both Down syndrome and congenital heart disease is increasing due to better medical and surgical care. This cohort presents with multiple unique comorbidities, secondary to both progressions of health conditions associated with the aging of patients with Down syndrome, as well as due to pathophysiologic effects of uncorrected, corrected, or palliated congenital heart disease. These patients need frequent medical care and interventions requiring multiple anesthetics. This review focuses on the various factors relevant to the perioperative medical care of adult patients with both Down syndrome and congenital heart disease, founded on existing literature. Various anesthetic considerations for the different patterns of noncardiac and cardiac comorbidities are reviewed, and a systematic approach for the perioperative anesthetic management of these patients is presented.

Ventricular Septal Defect Exposure by Tricuspid Valve Chordal Detachment-A Retrospective Matched Study

Background: Transatrial approach is the standard method in repairing ventricular septal defects (VSD) in the pediatric population. However, the tricuspid valve (TV) apparatus might obscure the inferior border of the VSD risking the adequacy of repair by leaving residual VSD or heart block. Detachment of the TV chordae has been described as an alternative technique to TV leaflet detachment. The aim of this study is to investigate the safety of such a technique. Methods: Retrospective review of patients who underwent VSD repair between 2015 and 2018. Group A (n = 25) had VSD repair with TV chordae detachment were matched for age and weight to group B (n = 25) without tricuspid chordal or leaflet detachment. Electrocardiogram (ECG) and echocardiogram at discharge and at 3 years of follow-up were reviewed to identify new ECG changes, residual VSD, and TV regurgitation. Results: Median ages in groups A and B were 6.13 (IQR 4.33-7.91) and 6.33 (4.77-7.2) months. New onset right bundle branch block (RBBB) was diagnosed at discharge in 28% (n = 7) of group A versus 56% (n = 14) in group B (P = .044), while the incidence dropped to 16% (n = 4) in group A versus 40% (n = 10) in group B (P = .059) in the 3 years follow-up ECG. Echocardiogram at discharge showed moderate tricuspid regurgitation in 16% (n = 4) in group A and 12% (n = 3) in group B (P = .867). Three years of follow-up echocardiography revealed no moderate or severe tricuspid regurgitation and no significant residual VSD in either group. Conclusion: No significant difference in operative time was observed between the two techniques. TV chordal detachment technique reduces the incidence of postoperative RBBB without increasing the incidence of TV regurgitation at discharge.

Right Atrial Lines as Primary Access for Postoperative Pediatric Cardiac Patients

To characterize the use of right atrial lines (RALs) as primary access in the postoperative care of neonatal and pediatric patients after cardiothoracic surgery and to identify risk factors associated with RAL complications. Observational retrospective cohort study in pediatric cardiac patients who underwent RAL placement in a tertiary children's hospital from January 2011 through June 2018. A total of 692 children with congenital heart disease underwent 815 RAL placements during the same or subsequent cardiothoracic surgeries during the study period. Median age and weight were 22 days (IQR 7-134) and 3.6 kg (IQR 3.1-5.3), respectively. Neonates accounted for 53.5% of patients and those with single-ventricle physiology were 35.4%. Palliation surgery (shunts, cavo-pulmonary connections, hybrid procedures, and pulmonary artery bandings) accounted for 38%. Survival to hospital discharge was 95.5%. Median RAL duration was 11 days (IQR 7-19) with a median RAL removal to hospital discharge time of 0 days (IQR 0-3). Thrombosis and migration were the most prevalent complications (1.7% each), followed by malfunction (1.4%) and infection (0.7%). Adverse events associated with complications were seen in 12 (1.4%) of these RAL placements: decrease in hemoglobin (n = 1), tamponade requiring pericardiocentesis (n = 3), pleural effusion requiring chest tube (n = 2), and need for antimicrobials (n = 6). Multivariable logistic regression showed that RAL duration (OR 1.01, p = 0.006) and palliation surgery (OR 2.38, p = 0.015) were significant and independent factors for complications. The use of RALs as primary access in postoperative pediatric cardiac patients seems to be feasible and safe. Our overall incidence of complications from prolonged use of RALs remained similar or lower to that reported with short-term use of these lines. While RAL duration and palliation surgeries seemed to be associated with complications, severity of illness could be a confounding factor. A prospective assessment of RAL complications may improve outcomes in this medically complex population.

Cardiovascular Complications of Down Syndrome: Scoping Review and Expert Consensus

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with Down syndrome. Congenital heart disease is the most common cardiovascular condition in this group, present in up to 50% of people with Down syndrome and contributing to poor outcomes. Additional factors contributing to cardiovascular outcomes include pulmonary hypertension; coexistent pulmonary, endocrine, and metabolic diseases; and risk factors for atherosclerotic disease. Moreover, disparities in the cardiovascular care of people with Down syndrome compared with the general population, which vary across different geographies and health care systems, further contribute to cardiovascular mortality; this issue is often overlooked by the wider medical community. This review focuses on the diagnosis, prevalence, and management of cardiovascular disease encountered in people with Down syndrome and summarizes available evidence in 10 key areas relating to Down syndrome and cardiac disease, from prenatal diagnosis to disparities in care in areas of differing resource availability. All specialists and nonspecialist clinicians providing care for people with Down syndrome should be aware of best clinical practice in all aspects of care of this distinct population.

Surgical Outcomes of Congenital Heart Disease in Down Syndrome: Tertiary Center Experience-Focus on the Electrical Conduction System

To document outcomes of cardiac surgical repair in Down syndrome (DS) patients with specific focus on the associated electrical conduction morbidities, ultimately leading to a higher incidence of pacemaker implantation (PMI). A retrospective study conducted between 2011 and 2020. A total of 167 DS patients undergoing 204 surgeries were included. The mean gestational age (GA) and mean weight were 37.3 weeks and 5.5 kg, respectively. Complete atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) was the most common diagnosis. Pre-operative ECG revealed superior axis deviation (SAD) in 92 and 32% of patients with AVSD and isolated perimembranous ventricular septal defect (VSD), respectively (p < 0.01). Postoperative right bundle branch block (RBBB) was observed in 83 and 55% of patients with AVSD and following perimembranous VSD repair, respectively (p = 0.04). Ten patients underwent post-operative pacemaker implantation (PMI). Reintervention rate was around 8.9%. Three mortalities were encountered throughout the study period, 2 of which were in-hospital deaths. Low mortality was observed, however, a higher rate of PMI requirements noted with risk factors including lower age and weight.

Transcatheter Edge-to-Edge Repair for Left Atrioventricular Valve Cleft After Previously Repaired Complete Atrioventricular Canal Defect in Down Syndrome

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TEER of mitral leaflet clefts has been reported sparingly.

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Patients with DS may have left AVV disease including clefts.

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TEER may be feasible in high surgical risk patients with AVV cleft.

Prolonged QT and Torsades de Pointes in a child with late-onset post-operative complete heart block

A young child presented with syncope attacks. Late-onset post-operative complete atrioventricular block and Torsades de Pointes were diagnosed. She was treated with surgical epicardial pacemaker implantation. This report is the description of Torsades de Pointes due to late-onset post-operative complete atrioventricular block followed by R on T phenomenon in a child.

Learning to Crawl: Determining the Role of Genetic Abnormalities on Postoperative Outcomes in Congenital Heart Disease

Background Our cardiac center established a systematic approach for inpatient cardiovascular genetics evaluations of infants with congenital heart disease, including routine chromosomal microarray (CMA) testing. This provides a new opportunity to investigate correlation between genetic abnormalities and postoperative course. Methods and Results Infants who underwent congenital heart disease surgery as neonates (aged ≤28 days) from 2015 to 2020 were identified. Cases with trisomy 21 or 18 were excluded. Diagnostic genetic results or CMA with variant of uncertain significance were considered abnormal. We compared postoperative outcomes following initial congenital heart disease surgery in patients found to have genetic abnormality to those who had negative CMA. Among 355 eligible patients, genetics consultations or CMA were completed in 88%. A genetic abnormality was identified in 73 patients (21%), whereas 221 had negative CMA results. Genetic abnormality was associated with prematurity, extracardiac anomaly, and lower weight at surgery. Operative mortality rate was 9.6% in patients with a genetic abnormality versus 4.1% in patients without an identified genetic abnormality (P=0.080). Mortality was similar when genetic evaluations were diagnostic (9.3%) or identified a variant of uncertain significance on CMA (10.0%). Among 14 patients with 22q11.2 deletion, the 2 mortality cases had additional CMA findings. In patients without extracardiac anomaly, genetic abnormality was independently associated with increased mortality (P=0.019). CMA abnormality was not associated with postoperative length of hospitalization, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, or >7 days to initial extubation. Conclusions Routine genetic evaluations and CMA may help to stratify mortality risk in severe congenital heart disease with syndromic or nonsyndromic presentations.

Congenital Heart Disease and Its Association in Children With Down Syndrome

Objective

The objective is to determine the frequency of different congenital heart diseases and their association in children with Down syndrome (DS).

Methodology

This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the pediatric department of Peshawar Institute of Cardiology, Peshawar, Pakistan from August 2021 to July 2022. A total of 123 children with DS and congenital heart disease (CHD) were included in this cross-sectional study. Detailed history and examination were performed, and findings were documented on performed pro forma. Diagnosis of CHD was confirmed through two-dimensional (2D) and Doppler echocardiography performed by a pediatric cardiologist. Patients were managed according to standard protocols and guidelines. The data including age, gender, mother's age at the time of birth, type of CHD and growth failure were documented and analyzed. Percentages were used to express frequencies.

Results

The mean age was 2.2 years ± 3.4 years (interquartile range (IQR): 10 days to 14 years). There were 65 (52.8%) male and 58 (47.1%) female patients. Out of 123 patients, 101 (82.1%) had acyanotic CHD and 22 (17.8%) had cyanotic CHD. Among acyanotic CHD, isolated ventricular septal defect (VSD) was the most common observation in 23 (22.3%) and among cyanotic CHD, tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) in seven (31.8%) patients. The most common associations of CHD were VSD+ patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in 11 (9%) patients and atrial septal defect (ASD)+PDA in nine (7.3%) patients. The median age of the mother at delivery was 31 years (interquartile range (IQR): 20 years to 45 years). Growth failure was seen in 70 (56.9%) patients.

Conclusion

Based on our data, VSD is the most common CHD followed by a complete atrio-VSD (CAVSD) in children with DS. The most common association of CHD in DS is VSD with PDA. Growth failure is seen in most of the patients with DS having a CHD.

Predictors of major adverse events and complications after ventricular septal defects surgical closure in children less than 10 kg

Background

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital cardiac defect for which outcomes are not uniform. There is a lack of consensus on the risk factors for the unfavorable outcomes following surgical VSD closure.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors and the predictors of major adverse events (MAEs) and complications following surgical closure of VSD in children weighing less than 10 kg.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included children less than 10 kg who underwent surgical closure of congenital VSD of any type with or without associated congenital heart diseases. Patients with associated major cardiac anomalies were excluded. Preoperative, operative and postoperative data were collected from medical records.

Results

This study included 127 patients 52.8% were males, the median age was 8.0 months (IQR = 6.0–11.0 months), and their median weight was 5.7 kg (IQR = 4.8–7.0). Mortality was in one patient (0.8%) Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that male sex group (observational data), previous pulmonary artery banding (PAB), and significant intraoperative residual VSD were significant risk factors for the development of MAEs (odds ratios were 3.398, 14.282, and 8.634, respectively). Trisomy 21 syndrome (odds ratio: 5.678) contributed significantly to prolonged ventilation. Pulmonary artery banding (odds ratio: 14.415), significant intraoperative (3 mm) residual VSD (odds ratio: 11.262), and long cross-clamp time (odds ratio: 1.064) were significant predictors of prolonged ICU stay, whereas prolonged hospital stay was observed significantly in male sex group (odds ratio: 12.8281), PAB (odds ratio: 2.669), and significant intraoperative (3 mm) residual VSD (odds ratio: 19.551).

Conclusions

Surgical VSD repair is considered a safe procedure with very low mortality. Trisomy 21 was a significant risk factor for prolonged ventilation. Further, PAB, significant intraoperative residual of 3 mm or more that required a second pulmonary bypass, and a greater cross-clamp time were significant predictors of MAE and associated complications with prolonged ICU and hospital stay.

Long-Term Observational Outcomes after Total Correction of Congenital Heart Disease in Korean Patients with Down Syndrome: A National Cohort Study

Background: In the present study, the population prevalence and postoperative morbidity and mortality in Down syndrome patients who underwent total correction for congenital heart disease were investigated using data from a large national cohort. Methods: Retrospective administrative data from 2,395,966 participants born between 2008 and 2012 were acquired from the National Investigation of Birth Cohort in Korea. Among Down syndrome patients, 58.3% had congenital heart disease and 32.3% underwent total correction. Propensity score matching (maximum 1:1) and stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting (IPTW) were performed for each group (153 Down syndrome patients and 4482 non-Down syndrome patients). Results: T late mortality rate was significantly higher in the Down syndrome group than in the non-Down syndrome group (8.1% vs. 3.8%). No differences were observed in postoperative heart failure and arrhythmias, but pulmonary hypertension was significantly greater in the Down syndrome group than in the non-Down syndrome group (26.9% vs. 7.0%). The length of hospitalization was longer in the Down syndrome group than in the non-Down syndrome group (14 days vs. 11 days; interquartile range (IQR): 10−25 vs. 6−19; p < 0.0001). After total correction, readmission frequency for any reason was minimally but statistically significantly higher in the Down syndrome group compared to the non-Down syndrome group (5 times vs. 5 times; IQR: 3−8 vs. 4−9; p < 0.0001). However, the number of emergency room visits was minimally but significantly lower in the Down syndrome group compared to the non-Down syndrome group (2 visits vs. 2 visits (IQR): 2−7 vs. 1−4; p = 0.016). Conclusions: Down syndrome patients with congenital heart disease undergoing total correction showed pulmonary hypertension after surgery, longer length of hospitalization, frequent hospitalization after surgery, and a higher rate of late mortality.

The evolving treatment of congenital heart disease in patient with Down syndrome: Current state of knowledge

OBJECTIVES

Children with Down syndrome are usually seen as not worthy of high-risk cardiac surgery. Through this review, we try to show the results of curative and palliative surgery for functional single ventricle syndrome in patients with Down syndrome, as there is currently no standard protocol for the treatment of this category of patients.

METHODS

An exhaustive search of all related published medical literature included the following domains: Down syndrome and diagnosis, Down syndrome and taxonomy, Down syndrome, and natural history, Down syndrome and cardiovascular abnormalities, Down syndrome and pulmonary hypertension, Down syndrome and institutionalization, Down syndrome and surgical repair, Down syndrome, and single ventricle palliation, Down syndrome and Glenn, Down syndrome, and Fontan.

RESULTS

12 articles were included from 775 identified. Low-risk cardiac surgery procedure should be provided for Down syndrome with a balanced ventricular septal defect. There is no universal agreement about the surgical approach for Down syndrome with unbalanced ventricular septal defects, but it can be performed at relatively low risk.

CONCLUSIONS

TCPC in Down syndrome patients could be a relatively low-risk procedure if patients are prepared well and their pulmonary vascular resistance is low. Randomized prospective studies are required to show the long-term impact of TCPC palliation and develop a better understanding of standardized care of these patients.

Peri-operative myocardial performance in infants with Down syndrome undergoing CHD repair

BACKGROUND

We aimed to characterise the impact of Down syndrome on myocardial performance and loading conditions in infants with Down syndrome and CHD over the peri-operative period by comparing them with infants matched for cardiac lesion with a normal microarray.

METHODS

Left ventricular global longitudinal strain, right ventricular free wall longitudinal strain, left ventricular end-systolic wall stress, and right ventricular systolic pressure were measured in the two groups over the peri-operative period.

RESULTS

Fifty-five infants had a diagnosis of Down syndrome and these were compared with 29 control infants. Left ventricular global longitudinal strain decreased in both groups post-operatively with the Down syndrome group demonstrating some recovery pre-discharge (18 ± 3 versus 16 ± 3 %, p = 0.01). Right ventricular longitudinal strain significantly decreased in both groups post-operatively with the control group demonstrating better recovery by hospital discharge (14 ± 4 versus 18 ± 6 %, p < 0.01). End-systolic wall stress was lower and right ventricular systolic pressure was higher in the Down syndrome group throughout the study period (all p < 0.05). Down syndrome was an independent predictor of the duration of ventilation, post-operative use of inotropes, and intensive care stay. Right ventricular longitudinal strain was an independent predictor of duration of intensive care stay.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrates the difference between the two groups in relation to left and right ventricular function, particularly prior to discharge, and outlines the additional impact a diagnosis of Down syndrome has on myocardial performance during the peri-operative period.

Pericardial effusion after congenital heart surgery

Objective

Pericardial effusion after cardiac surgery remains an important cause of morbidity and mortality. We describe the risk factors of pericardial effusion after congenital heart surgery through analyzing data from a nationwide, multi-institutional registry.

Methods

The Japan Congenital Cardiovascular Surgery Database, which reflects routine clinical care in Japan, was used for this retrospective cohort study. Multivariable regression analysis was done after univariable comparison of patients with pericardial effusion and no pericardial effusion.

Results

The study enrolled 64,777 patients registered with the Japan Congenital Cardiovascular Surgery Database between 2008 and 2016; 909 of these had postoperative pericardial effusion (1.4%) and were analyzed along with 63,868 patients without pericardial effusion. Univariable analysis found no difference between the groups in terms of gender, early delivery, or preoperative mechanical ventilatory support. In the pericardial effusion group, cardiopulmonary bypass use was lower (58.4% vs 62.1%), whereas the cardiopulmonary bypass time (176.9 vs 139.9 minutes) and aortic crossclamp time (75.1 vs 62.2 minutes) were longer, and 30-day mortality was higher (4.1% vs 2.2%). Multivariable analysis identified trisomy 21 (odds ratio, 1.54), 22q.11 deletion (odds ratio, 2.17), first-time cardiac surgery (odds ratio, 2.01), and blood transfusion (odds ratio, 1.43) as independent risk factors of postoperative pericardial effusion. In contrast, neonates, infants, ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, tetralogy of Fallot repair, and arterial switch operation were correlated with a low risk of pericardial effusion development.

Conclusions

The incidence of postoperative pericardial effusion in congenital cardiac surgery was 1.4%. Trisomy 21, 22q.11 deletion, first-time cardiac surgery, and blood transfusion were identified as the principal factors predicting the need for pericardial effusion drainage.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Ultrasound for Detecting Gastric or Duodenal Ulcers in Pediatric Patients

OBJECTIVE

Direct ultrasound imaging findings alone have low sensitivity for diagnosing duodenal (65%) and gastric ulcers (40%). This retrospective study evaluated the efficiency of ultrasound in detecting gastric/duodenal ulcers in pediatric patients through direct and indirect findings.

METHODS

We evaluated 244 children who underwent ultrasound and subsequent endoscopy within 4 weeks for direct and indirect imaging findings indicative of gastric/duodenal ulcers. Positive direct imaging findings revealed gastric or duodenal wall thickness >8 or 5 mm, respectively, and indirect findings revealed inflammatory changes, hyperechogenicity, and presence of lymph node around ulcers. Correspondingly, we calculated the sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing gastric/duodenal ulcers and used the Fisher's exact and Mann-Whitney U tests to compare the frequency of findings and gastroduodenal wall thicknesses in pediatric patients with gastric/duodenal ulcers.

RESULTS

Overall, 6 and 24 were diagnosed with gastric and duodenal ulcers, respectively. The sensitivities of direct and indirect findings were 60.0% (18/30) and 80.0% (24/30), respectively; the corresponding specificities were 98.1% (210/214) and 97.2% (208/214). The frequency of direct and indirect sonographic findings differed significantly between patients with gastric or duodenal ulcers (18/30 versus 24/30, P = .002). Gastric and duodenal wall thicknesses were greater in patients with gastric (6.6 ± 2.6 mm versus 3.6 ± 1.4 mm; P = .003) or duodenal ulcer (5.0 ± 1.4 mm versus 2.2 ± 1.0 mm; P <.0001), respectively, than in those without.

CONCLUSIONS

The frequency of indirect finding was greater than that of direct finding in pediatric patients with gastric/duodenal ulcers. Therefore, sonographers should carefully evaluate indirect findings around the stomach or duodenum.

Pulmonary Hypertension in the Population with Down Syndrome

Persons with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased reported incidence of pulmonary hypertension (PH). A majority of those with PH have associations with congenital heart disease (CHD) or persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN); however, there are likely multifactorial contributions that include respiratory comorbidities. PH appears to be most commonly identified early in life, although respiratory challenges may contribute to a later diagnosis or even a recurrence of previously resolved PH in this population. Currently there are few large-scale, prospective, lifetime cohort studies detailing the impact PH has on the population with DS. This review will attempt to summarize the epidemiology and characteristics of PH in this population. This article will additionally review current known and probable risk factors for developing PH, review pathophysiologic mechanisms of disease in the population with DS, and evaluate current screening and management recommendations while suggesting areas for additional or ongoing clinical, translational, and basic science research.

Infants with Down syndrome and congenital heart disease have altered peri-operative immune responses

BACKGROUND

Infants with Down syndrome (DS) have an altered immune response. We aimed to characterise the inflammatory response in infants with DS and congenital heart disease (CHD) peri-operatively in comparison to infants with CHD and a normal chromosomal complement, and to healthy infants pre-operatively.

METHODS

Infants with DS/CHD, infants without DS but with CHD (CHD only) and healthy infants were prospectively recruited and serial serum cytokines evaluated peri-operatively using multiplex ELISA: tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α and TNF-β; interferon (IFN)-γ, interleukin (IL)-1α, IL-2, IL-6, IL-8, IL-18, IL-1β, IL-10, and IL-1ra; vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF); granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF); and erythropoietin (EPO).

RESULTS

Ninety-four infants were recruited including age-matched controls (n = 10), DS/CHD (n = 55), and CHD only (n = 29). Children with DS/CHD had significantly lower concentrations of several cytokines (IL-10, IL-6, IL-8, IL-1β, VEGF) in the pre- and post-operatively vs CHD only and controls. EPO and GM-CSF were significantly higher in DS/CHD (p value <0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Children with DS/CHD had significantly lower concentrations of several cytokines compared to controls or children with CHD only. EPO and GM-CSF were significantly higher in children with DS/CHD. The assessment of the immune response may be suitable for the predictable clinical outcomes in these children.

IMPACT

This study demonstrated that children with Down syndrome (DS) and congenital heart disease (CHD) have significant alterations in pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory immune responses peri-operatively. These changes may contribute to adverse clinical outcomes, including sepsis, chylothorax, and autoimmunity. They may impact the pathogenesis and outcome post-operatively and long term in this population. Children with DS and CHD have significantly lower cytokine concentrations, increased EPO and GM-CSF, and decreased VEGF pre- and post-operatively. Assessing their inflammatory state peri-operatively may facilitate the development of a predictive model that can inform tailored management of these infants using novel therapies including immunomodulation.

Impact of prenatal screening on congenital heart defects in neonates with Down syndrome in the US

BACKGROUND

Non-invasive prenatal screening (NIPS) has fundamentally changed the screening process for Down syndrome (DS). Rates of complex congenital heart defects (CHD) have decreased in international studies but whether these shifts exist in the US is unknown.

METHODS

Encounters for neonates with DS from 2007 to 2018 were obtained from the Pediatric Health Information System database. CHD were categorized as complex CHD, atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD), ventricular septal defects (VSD), and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF). Comparisons were made between pre-NIPS era (2007-2010) vs. post-NIPS era (2014-2018) and between states with low vs. high access to pregnancy termination as described by the Guttmacher Institute.

RESULTS

Among 9122 patients, 6% had complex CHD, 22% had an AVSD, 22% had a VSD, and 4% had TOF. No difference in proportions of CHD was seen between eras. A small difference was observed in the proportion of AVSD between states with low vs. high access to pregnancy termination (23 vs. 17%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The proportion of CHD in patients with DS appears to be stable despite widespread adoption of NIPS in the US. Variations were observed between states with low vs. high access to pregnancy termination. Population based studies are needed to fully evaluate the current epidemiology of CHD in DS.

IMPACT

Through investigation of the Pediatric Health Information System database, this study assesses contemporary epidemiology of congenital heart disease among patients with Down syndrome. It has been suggested that improved prenatal screening for Down syndrome has altered the cardiac phenotype in international populations. Whether a similar shift also exists in the United States is unknown. In a contemporary United States cohort, a shift in the proportion or type of heart defects over the past decade was not observed. Regional differences in the proportion of heart defects were seen and may be due to differential access to prenatal care.

Lymphatic Endothelial Cell Defects in Congenital Cardiac Patients With Postoperative Chylothorax

Objectives

Chylothorax following cardiac surgery for congenital cardiac anomalies is a complication associated with severe morbidities and mortality. We hypothesize that there are intrinsic defects in the lymphatics of congenital cardiac patients.

Methods

Postsurgical chylothorax lymphatic endothelial cells (pcLECs) (n = 10) were isolated from the chylous fluid from congenital cardiac defect patients, and characterized by fluorescent-activated cell sorting, immunofluorescent staining, and quantitative RT-PCR. Results were compared to normal human dermal lymphatic endothelial cells (HdLECs). pcLECs (n = 3) and HdLECs were xenografted into immunocompromised mice. Implants and postoperative chylothorax patient's pulmonary tissues were characterized by immunostaining for lymphatic endothelial proteins.

Results

pcLECs expressed endothelial markers VECADHERIN, CD31, VEGFR2, lymphatic endothelial markers PROX1, podoplanin, VEGFR3, and progenitor endothelial markers CD90 and CD146. However, pcLECs had key differences relative to HdLECs, including altered expression and mislocalization of junctional proteins (VECADHERIN and CD31), and essential endothelial proteins, VEGFR2, VEGFR3, and PROX1. When xenografted in mice, pcLECs formed dilated lymphatic channels with poor cell-cell association. Similar to congenital lymphatic anomalies, the pulmonary lymphatics were dilated in a patient who developed postoperative chylothorax after cardiac surgery.

Conclusions

Recent studies have shown that some postoperative chylothoraces in congenital cardiac anomalies are associated with anatomical lymphatic defects. We found that pcLECs have defects in expression and localization of proteins necessary to maintain lymphatic specification and function. This pcLEC phenotype is similar to that observed in lymphatic endothelial cells from congenital lymphatic anomalies. Co-existence of lymphatic anomalies should be considered as a feature of congenital cardiac anomalies.

Transcarotid Approach to Ventricular Septal Defect Closure in Small Infants

Perimembranous ventricular septal defect closure in small infants has traditionally been a surgically treated defect, although alternative hybrid strategies are emerging. We aim to describe a novel approach to retrograde device closure of clinically relevant perimembranous ventricular septal defects in small infants via carotid cutdown. A retrospective review of all patients managed with attempted carotid cutdown for device closure of a perimembranous ventricular septal defect was recorded at a single tertiary cardiac centre. We summarized data on successful device deployment, conversion to open repair, complications, and length of stay. Eighteen infants with median (IQR) age of 7 months (5-9 months) and weight of 7.1 kg (6.5-7.8 kg) with clinically relevant PMVSD underwent attempted retrograde closure via carotid cutdown. Median (IQR) defect size was 8 mm (7-9 mm). Successful device deployment without significant aortic or tricuspid valve interference occurred in 15 (83%) patients. Three patients were converted to open repair, one following damage to the tricuspid valve apparatus. Median (IQR) hospital stay was 1 day (1-3 days). There were no complications related to carotid cutdown. Retrograde device closure of hemodynamically significant PMVSD is feasible and effective in small infants. Decision to convert to surgical repair should be made early if suboptimal device placement occurs. Carotid evaluation should be performed to rule out any access-related complications.

Gain in growth after surgical repair of congenital heart disease among children with Down syndrome

Down syndrome (DS) is a common genetic disorder among Saudi children, for which limited data is available on growth for those who undergo surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD). We assessed the magnitude of growth over time following surgery and the factors associated with growth change. Eighty-eight children with DS and CHD who underwent surgery between 2009 and 2017 at the tertiary children's hospital in Al-Qassim, Saudi Arabia, were eligible. Information on gender, height, and weight (at surgery, 6 and 12 months), age at surgery, and type of CHD were abstracted from the medical records. Repeated measure analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used for data analysis. The sample's mean age (SD) was 16.2 months (20.1); 47% were male. Height, weight, and body mass index (BMI) increased significantly at both follow-up points. There was a significant interaction between age at surgery, type of heart disease, and time for all three physical indices (p-values <0.001). The increase in height, weight, and BMI was significantly greater for children ≤8 months old with acyanotic CHD compared to children >8 months with cyanotic CHD. Overall, the gain in growth was greater for the children with DS who had had surgery at a younger age.

Genetics of congenital heart disease: a narrative review of recent advances and clinical implications

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common human birth defect and remains a leading cause of mortality in childhood. Although advances in clinical management have improved the survival of children with CHD, adult survivors commonly experience cardiac and non-cardiac comorbidities, which affect quality of life and prognosis. Therefore, the elucidation of genetic etiologies of CHD not only has important clinical implications for genetic counseling of patients and families but may also impact clinical outcomes by identifying at-risk patients. Recent advancements in genetic technologies, including massively parallel sequencing, have allowed for the discovery of new genetic etiologies for CHD. Although variant prioritization and interpretation of pathogenicity remain challenges in the field of CHD genomics, advances in single-cell genomics and functional genomics using cellular and animal models of CHD have the potential to provide novel insights into the underlying mechanisms of CHD and its associated morbidities. In this review, we provide an updated summary of the established genetic contributors to CHD and discuss recent advances in our understanding of the genetic architecture of CHD along with current challenges with the interpretation of genetic variation. Furthermore, we highlight the clinical implications of genetic findings to predict and potentially improve clinical outcomes in patients with CHD.

Early Extubation in a Pediatric Cardiac Surgery Program Located at High Altitude

BACKGROUND

Early extubation is performed either in the operating room or in the cardiovascular intensive care unit during the first 24 postoperative hours; however, altitude might possibly affect the process. The aim of this study is the evaluation of early extubation feasibility of patients undergoing congenital heart surgery in a center located at 2,691 m (8,828 ft.) above sea level.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients undergoing congenital heart surgery, from August 2012 through December 2018, were considered for early extubation. The following variables were recorded: weight, serum lactate, presence or not of Down syndrome, optimal oxygenation and acid-base status according to individual physiological condition (biventricular or univentricular), age, bypass time, and ventricular function. Standardized anesthetic management with dexmedetomidine-fentanyl-rocuronium and sevoflurane was used. If extubation in the operating room was considered, 0.08 mL/kg of 0.5% ropivacaine was injected into the parasternal intercostal spaces bilaterally before closing the sternum.

RESULTS

Four hundred seventy-eight patients were operated and 81% were early extubated. Mean pre- and postoperative SaO₂ was 92% and 98%; postoperative SaO₂ for Glenn and Fontan procedures patients was 82% and 91%, respectively. Seventy-three percent of patients who underwent Glenn procedure, 89% of those who underwent Fontan procedure (all nonfenestrated), and 85% with Down syndrome were extubated in the operating room. Reintubation rate in early extubated patients was 3.6%.

CONCLUSION

Early extubation is feasible, with low reintubation rates, at 2,691 m (8,828 ft.) above sea level, even in patients with single ventricle physiology.

Atrioventricular Septal Defects: Pathology, Imaging, and Treatment Options

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Atrioventricular septal defects (AVSD) represent a broad spectrum of congenital anomalies from simple to the most complex heart defects including some distinct types. Clinical presentation and timing of intervention differ by morphological subset and functional anatomy. Herein, we review morphological variations and characteristics that determine appropriate intervention and provide insights into functional anatomy based on detailed three-dimensional (3D) assessment of AVSDs.

RECENT FINDINGS

The understanding of functional morphology of AVSDs has improved significantly with detailed 3D echocardiographic evaluation of the atrioventricular junction and valve morphology. As prenatal detection of AVSDs has increased significantly, it has become the most common fetal cardiac diagnosis enabling antenatal counseling and delivery planning. Advances in diagnosis and perioperative care have resulted in optimal outcomes. The diagnosis and management of AVSDs have improved over the years with enhanced understanding of anatomy and perioperative care resulting in optimal short and long-term outcomes.

Down syndrome and congenital heart disease: perioperative planning and management

Approximately 50% of newborns with Down syndrome have congenital heart disease. Non-cardiac comorbidities may also be present. Many of the principles and strategies of perioperative evaluation and management for patients with congenital heart disease apply to those with Down syndrome. Nevertheless, careful planning for cardiac surgery is required, evaluating for both cardiac and noncardiac disease, with careful consideration of the risk for pulmonary hypertension. In this manuscript, for children with Down syndrome and hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease, we will summarize the epidemiology of heart defects that warrant intervention. We will review perioperative planning for this unique population, including anesthetic considerations, common postoperative issues, nutritional strategies, and discharge planning. Special considerations for single ventricle palliation and heart transplantation evaluation will also be discussed. Overall, the risk of mortality with cardiac surgery in pediatric patients with Down syndrome is no more than the general population, except for those with functional single ventricle heart defects. Underlying comorbidities may contribute to postoperative complications and increased length of stay. A strong understanding of cardiac and non-cardiac considerations in children with Down syndrome will help clinicians optimize perioperative care and long-term outcomes.

Long-Term Survival and Causes of Death in Children with Trisomy 21 After Congenital Heart Surgery

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate long-term transplant-free survival and causes of death in the trisomy 21 (T21) population after surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) in comparison with patients who are euploidic.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study from the Pediatric Cardiac Care Consortium, enriched with prospectively collected data from the National Death Index and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network for patients with sufficient direct identifiers. Kaplan-Meier survival plots were generated and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to examine risk factors for mortality between patients with T21 and 1:1 matched patients with comparable CHD who are euploidic.

RESULTS

A long-term survival analysis was completed for 3376 patients with T21 (75 155 person-years) who met inclusion criteria. The 30-year survival rate for patients with T21 ranged from 92.1% for ventricular septal defect to 65.3% for complex common atrioventricular canal. Of these, 2185 patients with T21 were successfully matched with a patient who was euploidic. After a median follow-up of 22.86 years (IQR, 19.45-27.14 years), 213 deaths occurred in the T21 group (9.7%) compared with 123 (5.6%) in the euploidic comparators. After adjustment for age, sex, era, CHD complexity, and initial palliation, the hazard ratio of CHD-related mortality was 1.34 times higher in patients with T21 (95% CI, 0.92-1.97; P = .127).

CONCLUSIONS

CHD-related mortality for patients with T21 after cardiac surgical intervention is comparable with euploidic comparators. Children with T21 require lifelong surveillance for co-occurring conditions associated with their chromosomal abnormality.

Pulmonary hypertension in children with Down syndrome

Individuals with Down syndrome (DS) have an increased risk of developing pulmonary hypertension (PH). In this review, we explore the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of PH in the population with DS and examine genetic, molecular and clinical contributions to the condition. The presence of an additional copy of chromosome 21 (trisomy 21) increases the risk of developing PH in children with DS through many mechanisms, including increased hemodynamic stress in those with congenital heart disease, hypoxemia through impaired ventilation to perfusion matching secondary to developmental lung abnormalities, pulmonary hypoplasia from pulmonary vascular endothelial dysfunction, and an increase in pulmonary vascular resistance often related to pulmonary comorbidities. We review recent studies looking at novel biomarkers that may help diagnose, predict or monitor PH in the population with DS and examine current cardiopulmonary guidelines for monitoring children with DS. Finally, we review therapeutic interventions specific to PH in individuals with DS. Contemporary work has identified exciting mechanistic pathways including the upregulation of antiangiogenic factors and interferon activity, which may lead to additional biomarkers or therapeutic opportunities. Throughout the manuscript, we identify gaps in our knowledge of the condition as it relates to the population with DS and offer suggestions for future clinical, translational, and basic science research.

Pacemaker implantation post congenital heart disease surgical repair: tertiary center experience

This was a retrospective study documenting all pacemaker implantations (PMIs) secondary to postoperative atrioventricular block. A total of 26 patients were included between 2011 and 2020. The incidence rate was 1.8%, with a median follow-up time of 4.5 years. At the time of the initial PMI, the median weight was 5 kg, and the median generator longevity was 45 months. Mean cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic clamp times were significantly longer among surgeries complicated with PMI (P≤ 0.05). Trisomy 21 patients were 4 times more likely to need a PMI (95% CI 1.8-9, P < 0.001). The mean Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery and Society of Thoracic Surgery scores were higher in patients with PMI. All initial PMIs were epicardial (18 single chamber). Most patients underwent ventricular septal defect closure (isolated or complex), except for 5 patients who underwent left-sided surgery. Pacing-induced dilated cardiomyopathy occurred in 3 patients. All implanted leads were functional except for 2 leads with high thresholds and another biventricular system infection. There was a 31% rate of pacing reintervention.Conclusion: PMI resulted in significant morbidity but without mortality. The highest risk for PMI was left ventricular outflow tract repair, trisomy 21, prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass, and aortic cross times. What is Known: •Incidence rate for postoperative atrioventricular block requiring pacemaker was at 1.8%, similar to previously published reports. •Longer cardiopulmonary bypass and aortic cross-clamp times were associated with higher risk for developing postoperative persistent atrioventricular block. What is New: •Incidence for persistent atrioventricular block requiring pacemaker was highest among left ventricular outflow tract surgery at 8.6%. •Following all intracardiac repair, Down syndrome patients were 4 times more likely to need a pacemaker implantation compared to the non-syndromic group.

Trisomy 21 Patients Undergoing Cavopulmonary Connections Need Improved Preoperative and Postoperative Care

BACKGROUND

Patients with trisomy 21 (T21) often have elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, which may result in a suboptimal cavopulmonary connection (CPC) after a Glenn or Fontan operation. The purpose of this study was to assess, in a nationwide, multiinstitution cohort of patients with CPC, the impact of T21 on patient morbidity, mortality, and resource use.

METHODS

A total of 23,271 pediatric patients with CPC (2004 to 2019) at 50 US hospitals were evaluated using the Pediatric Health Information System database. Univariable and multivariable regression analyses were used to assess risk-adjusted associations between Down syndrome and other risk factors and postoperative measures of morbidity, mortality, lengths of stay, and cost of hospitalization.

RESULTS

The overall prevalence of T21 among patients who had undergone Glenn and Fontan procedures was 1.5% (199 of 13,268) and 0.8% (78 of 1003), respectively. Among both CPC cohorts, T21 status significantly increased unadjusted mortality, hospital lengths of stay, and total costs of hospitalization compared with the non-T21 CPC cohort (all P < .001). Patients with T21 also had a higher incidence of prolonged mechanical ventilation compared with patients without T21 in both Glenn and Fontan groups (P < .001). Multivariable regression analysis further estimated that patients with T21 are associated with a 5.5-fold increase in mortality (P < .001) compared with patients without T21. Finally, patients with T21 had increased long-term mortality compared with their peers.

CONCLUSIONS

T21 significantly increases risk-adjusted morbidity, inpatient mortality, long-term mortality, and resource use after cavopulmonary connections. Further investigation is needed to clarify modifiable patient-level and center-specific risk factors to improve outcomes for patients with T21.

Genetic Basis of Human Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common major congenital anomaly with an incidence of ∼1% of live births and is a significant cause of birth defect-related mortality. The genetic mechanisms underlying the development of CHD are complex and remain incompletely understood. Known genetic causes include all classes of genetic variation including chromosomal aneuploidies, copy number variants, and rare and common single-nucleotide variants, which can be either de novo or inherited. Among patients with CHD, ∼8%-12% have a chromosomal abnormality or aneuploidy, between 3% and 25% have a copy number variation, and 3%-5% have a single-gene defect in an established CHD gene with higher likelihood of identifying a genetic cause in patients with nonisolated CHD. These genetic variants disrupt or alter genes that play an important role in normal cardiac development and in some cases have pleiotropic effects on other organs. This work reviews some of the most common genetic causes of CHD as well as what is currently known about the underlying mechanisms.