Factors Influencing Neurodevelopment after Cardiac Surgery during Infancy

Impact of Residual Lesion Severity on Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Following Congenital Heart Surgery in Infancy and Childhood

Children with congenital heart disease are at increased risk of neurodevelopmental delay throughout their lifespan. This risk is exacerbated following congenital heart surgery (CHS) in infancy. However, there are few modifiable risk factors for postoperative neurodevelopmental delay. In this study, we assessed the Residual Lesion Score (RLS), a quality assessment metric that evaluates residual lesion severity following CHS, as a predictor of neurodevelopmental delay. This was a single-center, retrospective review of patients who underwent CHS from 01/2011 to 03/2021 and post-discharge neurodevelopmental evaluation from 12 to 42 months of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 3rd Edition (BSID-III). RLS was assigned per published criteria: RLS 1, no residua; RLS 2, minor residua; and RLS 3, major residua or pre-discharge reintervention. Associations between RLS and BSID-III scores, as well as trends in neurodevelopmental outcomes over time, were evaluated. Of 517 patients with median age at neurodevelopmental testing of 20.0 (IQR 18.0-22.7) months, 304 (58.8%), 146 (28.2%), and 67 (13.0%) were RLS 1, 2, and 3, respectively. RLS 3 patients had significantly lower scaled scores in the cognitive, receptive, and expressive communication, and fine and gross motor domains, compared with RLS 1 patients. Multivariable models accounted for 21.5%-31.5% of the variation in the scaled scores, with RLS explaining 1.4-7.3% of the variation. In a subgroup analysis, RLS 3 patients demonstrated relatively fewer gains in cognitive, expressive communication, and gross motor scores over time (all p < 0.05). In conclusion, RLS 3 patients are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental delay, warranting closer follow-up and greater developmental support for cognitive, language, and motor skills soon after surgery.

Socio-demographic parameters and non-cardiac comorbidity related to self-perceived quality of life in young adults after neonatal arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries

Evaluating the relation of non-cardiac comorbidity and socio-demographic factors to physical and mental health-related quality of life (QOL) which has been partially found at elevated risk in young adults after neonatal arterial switch operation (ASO) for transposition of the great arteries (TGA). In a prospective reassessment study, results of 92 unselected young adults (22.8 ± 2.6 years) having undergone evaluation of QOL (SF-36) were related to non-cardiac comorbidity with special respect to neurologic and psychiatric comorbidity and to socio-demographic parameters. Neurologic (14%) contrary to psychiatric comorbidities (6.5%) were more frequent than in the general population. The educational level was higher, the rate of unemployment was double as high compared to the average German population. Significant inverse relations (p = 0.006 to 0.033) existed between physical health domains (physical functioning and general health perception) and non-cardiac, neurologic, and psychiatric comorbidity, as well as correlations between the latter domains and socio-economic status, educational level, and worse employment status (Spearman 0.22-0.41, p < 0.0001 to 0.036). Mental health domains (vitality, social functioning, psychical health) were significantly inversely related with neurologic and psychiatric comorbidity (p = 0.002 to 0.048) and correlated with higher educational level (Spearman 0.25, p = 0.019). Neurologic and psychiatric comorbidities and socio-demographic parameters are significant risk factors for a reduced QOL concerning physical and mental health in young adults with TGA after ASO. Standardized QOL measurement should be part of routine screening programs to detect subclinical physical, neurodevelopmental, and psychosocial comorbidity.

Growth and risk of adverse neuro-developmental outcome in infants with congenital heart disease: A systematic review

AIM

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common birth defects affecting around 1:100 infants. In this systematic review, we aimed to determine impact of growth on neurodevelopmental outcomes of infants with CHD.

METHODS

Studies that reported association of growth with developmental outcomes in infants with CHD who had surgery, were included. The search strategy was prospectively registered. Relevant studies were identified by electronic searches. The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched from their earliest date to February 2022.

RESULTS

Twenty studies met inclusion criteria. Choice of growth measures, developmental assessment tools and timing of assessment varied widely precluding conduct of a meta-analysis. Seventeen studies reported on infants who had cardio-pulmonary bypass. Birth weight was reported in thirteen studies and was associated with adverse outcome in nine. Head circumference at birth and later predicted developmental outcomes in five. Impaired postnatal growth was associated with adverse developmental outcome in seven studies.

CONCLUSION

Growth in infants with congenital heart disease, specifically single ventricle physiology can predict adverse neurodevelopmental outcome. Included studies showed significant clinical heterogeneity. Uniformity should be agreed by various data registries with routine prospective collection of growth and developmental data.

A retrospective study of perioperative clinical seizures and epilepsy in children after operation for CHD

This study investigated the incidence and risk factors of perioperative clinical seizure and epilepsy in children after operation for CHD. We included 777 consecutive children who underwent operation from January 2013 to December 2016 at Kanagawa Children's Medical Center, Kanagawa, Japan. Perinatal, perioperative, and follow-up medical data were collected. Elastic net regression and mediation analysis were performed to investigate risk factors of perioperative clinical seizure and epilepsy. Anatomic CHD classification was performed based on the preoperative echocardiograms; cardiac surgery was evaluated using Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery 1. Twenty-three (3.0%) and 15 (1.9%) patients experienced perioperative clinical seizure and epilepsy, respectively. Partial regression coefficient with epilepsy as the objective variable for anatomical CHD classification, Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery 1, and the number of surgeries was 0.367, 0.014, and 0.142, respectively. The proportion of indirect effects on epilepsy via perioperative clinical seizure was 22.0, 21.0, and 33.0%, respectively. The 15 patients with epilepsy included eight cases with cerebral infarction, two cases with cerebral haemorrhage, and three cases with hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy; white matter integrity was not found. Anatomical complexity of CHD, high-risk cardiac surgery, and multiple cardiac surgeries were identified as potential risk factors for developing epilepsy, with a low rate of indirect involvement via perioperative clinical seizure and a high rate of direct involvement independently of perioperative clinical seizure. Unlike white matter integrity, stroke and hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy were identified as potential factors for developing epilepsy.

Early Determinants of Adverse Motor Outcomes in Preschool Children with a Critical Congenital Heart Defect

Neurodevelopmental disabilities are common in infants with critical congenital heart disease (CCHD). A prospective, longitudinal cohort study was conducted to establish the prevalence and early determinants of adverse motor outcomes in infants who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass before six months of age. Motor development was assessed in 147 preschoolers using the Movement Assessment Battery for children-II. Although the majority displayed an average motor development, 22% of preschool children with CCHD deteriorated in their motor developmental score compared to their previous assessment at 18 months, especially in those with an aortic arch anomaly (AAA) (35%). Individual stability over time appeared to be moderate and the number of children with a motor delay increased, up to 20% in children with AAA. Motor development up to 42 months was best predicted by gestational age, cardio pulmonary bypass time, aortic cross clamp time, number of heart catheterizations up to 18 months and early motor outcomes. The increase in number of preschool children with a motor delay underlines the importance of longitudinal screening of motor skills in children with CCHD at risk for adverse motor outcomes. Offering early interventions may protect their current and future cardiovascular health as motor development is an independent predictor of exercise capacity, physical activity and participation in daily living.

Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy assessment of neonatal brain metabolism during cardiopulmonary bypass surgery

Here, we report on the development and performance of a robust 3-T single-voxel proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹ H MRS) experimental protocol and data analysis pipeline for quantifying brain metabolism during cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) surgery in a neonatal porcine model, with the overall goal of elucidating primary mechanisms of brain injury associated with these procedures. The specific aims were to assess which metabolic processes can be reliably interrogated by ¹ H MRS on a 3-T clinical scanner and to provide an initial assessment of brain metabolism during deep hypothermia cardiac arrest (DHCA) surgery and recovery. Fourteen neonatal pigs underwent CPB surgery while placed in a 3-T MRI scanner for 18, 28, and 37°C DHCA studies under hyperglycemic, euglycemic, and hypoglycemic conditions. Total imaging times, including baseline measurements, circulatory arrest (CA), and recovery averaged 3 h/animal, during which 30-40 single-voxel ¹ H MRS spectra (sLASER pulse sequence, TR/TE = 2000/30 ms, 64 or 128 averages) were acquired from a 2.2-cc right midbrain voxel. ¹ H MRS at 3 T was able to reliably quantify (1) anaerobic metabolism via depletion of brain glucose and the associated build-up of lactate during CA, (2) phosphocreatine (PCr) to creatine (Cr) conversion during CA and subsequent recovery upon reperfusion, (3) a robust increase in the glutamine-to-glutamate (Gln/Glu) ratio during the post-CA recovery period, and (4) a broadening of the water peak during CA. In vivo ¹ H MRS at 3 T can reliably quantify subtle metabolic brain changes previously deemed challenging to interrogate, including brain glucose concentrations even under hypoglycemic conditions, ATP usage via the conversion of PCr to Cr, and differential changes in Glu and Gln. Observed metabolic changes during CPB surgery of a neonatal porcine model provide new insights into possible mechanisms for prevention of neuronal injury.

Longitudinal Motor-Developmental Outcomes in Infants with a Critical Congenital Heart Defect

Infants with critical congenital heart defects (CCHDs) are at increased risk for neurodevelopmental delays. The early identification of motor delays is clinically relevant to prevent or reduce long-term consequences. The current study aims to describe the motor-developmental pathways of infants with a CCHD. Motor development was assessed in 215 infants and toddlers using the Dutch version of the Bayley-III. At 3 months (n = 165), 9 months (n = 188), and 18 months (n = 171) the motor composite scores were 97, 98, and 104, respectively. A motor composite score of ≤−2 SD was only seen in 2.4%, 0%, and 2.3%, respectively, with gross motor deficits being observed more often than fine motor deficits (12% vs. 0% at 18 months). Over 90% of infants who scored average at 9 months still did so at 18 months. The majority of infants with below-average gross motor scores (≤−1) at 9 months still had a below-average or delayed motor score (≤−2 SD) at 18 months. Abnormal gross motor scores (≤−2 SD) increased with age. Infants with single-ventricle physiology performed significantly (p ≤ 0.05) worse on both fine and gross motor skills at 9 and 18 months compared to infants with other CCHDs.

The effect of dexmedetomidine on neuroprotection in pediatric cardiac surgery patients: study protocol for a prospective randomized controlled trial

Background

Infants undergoing cardiac surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass are vulnerable to postoperative neurodevelopmental delays. Dexmedetomidine has been shown to have protective effects on the heart, kidneys, and brain in animals and adults undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. We hypothesized that dexmedetomidine would have a neuroprotective effect on infants undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass and planned a prospective randomized controlled trial with postoperative neurodevelopment measurements.

Methods

This is a single-center, prospective, double-blinded, randomized controlled trial with 1:1 allocation. A cohort of 160 infants undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass will be enrolled. After induction, dexmedetomidine will be infused with a loading dose of 1 μg/kg and a maintenance dose of 0.5 μg/kg/h or the same amount of normal saline will be administered. Upon initiation of cardiopulmonary bypass, an additional dose of dexmedetomidine (0.01 μg/cardiopulmonary priming volume) will be mixed with the cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. The primary outcome will be the proportion of infants who score lower than 85 in any of the cognitive, language, or motor Bayley scales of infant development-III tests 1 year after the surgery. Other feasible outcome measures will include differences in plasma glial fibrillary acidic protein, troponin I, interleukin-6, urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin, and perioperative major adverse events. The results of the Bayley scales of infant development-III test from the study group and the control group will be compared using a chi-squared test under intention-to-treat analysis. A generalized estimating equation will be used to analyze repeated measurements over time.

Discussion

This study will enable us to assess whether the use of dexmedetomidine can alter the early neurodevelopmental outcome in infants undergoing cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass and also estimate effects of dexmedetomidine on other organs.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04484922. Registered on 24 July 2020

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13063-022-06217-9.

Therapeutic hypothermia for encephalopathic newborns with congenital heart defect: A cross-sectional survey on current practices and opinions in Germany

BACKGROUND

Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) reduces neonatal mortality and long-term neurodevelopmental impairment in infants with moderate-to-severe hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) caused by perinatal asphyxia. There is an increasing trend to apply TH in other indications and populations, such as infants with mild HIE or neonates with congenital heart defects (CHD), even though there is little evidence to support or refute this.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this survey was to analyze practice variations with respect to TH use in neonates with CHD and to assess expert opinions on this topic across tertiary neonatal departments in Germany.

METHODS/DESIGN

A web-based survey was sent to all tertiary neonatal departments in Germany. The questionnaire contained 32 multiple-choice questions. The survey inquired current practices on TH in newborns with CHD and expert opinions on various clinical scenarios.

MAIN RESULTS

A total 80 (51.3%) neonatal departments partially completed the survey, and 69 (44.2%) respondents filled out the whole questionnaire. All 80 (100.0%) departments perform TH. TH is offered by 76 (95.0%) respondents to encephalopathic newborns with simple CHD. In infants with critical/complex CHD, TH is offered after perinatal asphyxial HIE and in newborns with encephalopathy after severe acidosis associated with cardiac complications by 25 (31.3%), or 17 (22.1%) respondents, respectively, whereas a clear majority of centers reject TH in these infants. Unclear effects of TH on any ongoing prostaglandin therapy (57.6 and 52.3%, respectively), an increased risk for adverse reactions during TH (51.6 and 52.3%, respectively) and lack of evidence (33.3 and 53.8%, respectively) are the most frequently cited reasons for not performing TH in these infants. The majority of experts from neonatal departments providing comprehensive care for neonates with severe CHD support the initiation of TH in encephalopathic neonates.

DISCUSSION

The considerable heterogeneity in the use of TH in neonates with CHD emphasizes the need for further research to optimize treatment strategies for these patients.

Predictors of Neurological Outcome Following Infant Cardiac Surgery Without Deep Hypothermic Circulatory Arrest

The aim of this study is to describe the clinical characteristics, perioperative course and neuroimaging abnormalities of infants with congenital heart disease (CHD) undergoing heart surgery without deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) and identify variables associated with neurological outcome. Infants with CHD undergoing open-heart surgery without DHCA between 2009 and 2017 were identified from a cardiac surgery database. Full-term infants < 10 weeks of age at the time of surgery who had both a pre- and postoperative brain magnetic resonance imaging exam (MRI) were included. Clinical characteristics and perioperative variables were collected from the electronic medical record. Brain Injury Scores (BIS) were assigned to pre- and postoperative brain MRIs. Variables were examined for association with neurological outcome at 12 months of age or greater. Forty-two infants were enrolled in the study, of whom 69% (n = 29) had a neurological assessment ≥ to 12 months of age. Adverse neurological outcome was associated with longer intensive care unit (ICU) stay (P = 0.003), lengthier mechanical ventilation (P = 0.031), modified Blalock-Taussig (MBT) shunt procedure (P = 0.005) and postoperative seizures (P = 0.005). Total BIS scores did not predict outcome but postoperative infarction and/or intraparenchymal hemorrhage (IPH) was associated with worse outcome by multivariable analysis (P = 0.018). Infants with CHD undergoing open-heart surgery without DHCA are at increased risk of worse neurological outcome when their ICU stay is prolonged, mechanical ventilation is extended, MBT shunt is performed or when postoperative seizures are present. Cerebral infarctions and IPH on postoperative MRI are also associated with worse outcome.

Outcomes in very low birthweight infants with severe congenital heart defect following cardiac surgery within the first year of life

OBJECTIVES

Very low birthweight (<1500 g, VLBW) infants with severe congenital heart defect (CHD) are at increased risk for perinatal and operative mortality. This study aims to describe morbidity, long-term mortality and neuro-developmental outcome in early childhood in VLBW infants who received cardiac surgery for severe CHD within 1 year after birth.

METHODS

Monocentric observational study on VLBW infants with severe CHD born between 2008 and 2017. Neurodevelopmental impairment at 2 years corrected age was defined as cognitive deficit, cerebral palsy or major neurosensory deficit.

RESULTS

A total of 24 patients were included. Twenty-one (87.5%) infants underwent cardiac surgery with hypothermia during cardiopulmonary bypass (median temperature 30.3°C, interquartile range 27.0-32.0°C) at a median age of 96 (40-188) days. Seven (29.2%, 95% confidence interval 14.9-49.2%) patients died within the first year after cardiac surgery. Survival rates decreased with increasing STAT mortality category of the surgical procedure. Neurodevelopmental impairment at 2 years of corrected age was found in 9 out of 17 (52.9%) surviving infants, with 8 infants (47.1%) presenting with a cognitive deficit or delay and 4 infants (23.5%) being diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Survival without neuro-developmental impairment was 29.2% (n = 7, 95% confidence interval 14.9-49.2%) in the entire study cohort. Eighty percent of the newborns with dextro-transposition of the great arteries, but no patient with univentricular anatomy, survived without neuro-developmental impairment.

CONCLUSIONS

Individual VLBW infants with severe CHD may develop well despite the high combined risk for adverse outcomes. The type of cardiac malformation may affect early- and long-term outcomes.

Contrast-enhanced ultrasound of the pediatric brain

Brain contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) is an emerging application that can complement gray-scale US and yield additional insights into cerebral flow dynamics. CEUS uses intravenous injection of ultrasound contrast agents (UCAs) to highlight tissue perfusion and thus more clearly delineate cerebral pathologies including stroke, hypoxic-ischemic injury and focal lesions such as tumors and vascular malformations. It can be applied not only in infants with open fontanelles but also in older children and adults via a transtemporal window or surgically created acoustic window. Advancements in CEUS technology and post-processing methods for quantitative analysis of UCA kinetics further elucidate cerebral microcirculation. In this review article we discuss the CEUS examination protocol for brain imaging in children, current clinical applications and future directions for research and clinical uses of brain CEUS.

Motor Developmental Delay After Cardiac Surgery in Children With a Critical Congenital Heart Defect: A Systematic Literature Review and Meta-analysis

PURPOSE

To systematically review evidence regarding the severity and prevalence of motor development in children with a critical congenital heart defect (CCHD) without underlying genetic anomalies.

SUMMARY OF KEY POINTS

Twelve percent of all included studies reported abnormal mean motor developmental scores, and 38% reported below average motor scores. Children with single-ventricle physiology, especially those with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, had the highest severity and prevalence of motor delay, particularly at 0 to 12 months. Most included studies did not differentiate between gross and fine motor development, yet gross motor development was more affected.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

We recommend clinicians differentiate between the type of heart defect, fine and gross motor development, and the presence of genetic anomalies. Furthermore, increased knowledge about severity and prevalence will enable clinicians to tailor their interventions to prevent motor development delays in CCHD.

Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcomes of Children with Congenital Heart Defects

OBJECTIVE

To assess whether children with symptomatic congenital heart defects (CHDs) at birth (cyanosis and/or heart failure) are at greater risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes at 8 years of age.

STUDY DESIGN

From a prospective population-based cohort study of newborns with CHDs (EPICARD), we included 473 children with available neurodevelopmental assessments at 8 years of age. We grouped the CHD based on symptoms at birth and need for early neonatal intervention. Ventricular septal defects that closed spontaneously within the first year of life were considered the control group. Neurodevelopmental outcomes were assessed using the Kauffman Assessment Battery Test for Children, Second Edition, for IQ (mean 100 ± 15), and the Developmental NEuroPSYchological Assessment Battery, Second Edition, for detailed assessment of specific neurocognitive domains (mean 10 ± 3). Multivariable regression analysis was used to compare the outcomes across the CHD groups after considering potentially confounding variables.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, children with cyanotic CHD without heart failure had lower scores for IQ, -7.2 (95% CI -13.4 to -1.2). Children with noncyanotic CHD with heart failure had lower scores in the specific domains of language -1.5 (95% CI -2.2 to -0.7), and memory and learning -1.3 (95% CI -2.4; -0.3). Those with both cyanotic CHD and heart failure had lower scores for IQ, -7.6 (95% CI -13.5 to -1.8), as well as the specific domains of language and memory and learning, -2.0 (95% CI -2.9 to -1.0) and -1.1 (95% CI -2.3 to -0.1), respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with symptomatic CHD at birth are at greater risk of adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes at 8 years of age, with the greatest risk for those who were born with both cyanosis and heart failure.

Screening for neurodevelopmental disorders in children with congenital heart disease

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD) in children with significant congenital heart disease (CHD) and to determine associated factors to NDD and frequency of follow-up in developmental therapies. Two hundred and ten children with significant CHD aged from 6 to 66 months were enrolled over a period of six months. The Ages & Stages Questionnaire Third Edition in French (ASQ-3) was used to assess neurodevelopmental domains. NDD were defined if cut-off scores were ≤ - 1SD. - 1SD corresponded to "Monitor" range: children with minor or emerging disorders; - 2SD corresponded to "Refer" range: children exhibiting neurodevelopmental delays. Forty children were in "Monitor" range and 86 in "Refer" range. NDD rate was 60.0% (n = 126, 95% CI, 53.4 to 66.6%). There was no difference regarding CHD severity (p = 0.99). Only the presence of non-cardiac disease (OR = 2.14; 95% CI, 1.11 to 4.20) was associated with NDD. Forty-six children with NDD had no developmental follow-up (among them 21 were in "Refer" range (10%)) despite this being available.Conclusion: Children with significant CHD are at risk for NDD regardless of CHD severity. Systematic and early monitoring in a specific care program is required. Barriers that prevent access of care must be identified.Trial registration: Neurodevelopmental Disorders in Children With Congenital Heart Disease. NeuroDis-CHD. NCT03360370. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03360370 What is Known: • Children with CHD are at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders and behavioural problems impacting their social adaptation, academic achievements and quality of personal and family life even in adulthood. What is New: • Children with CHD are at risk for neurodevelopmental disorders regardless of the complexity of the CHD. • Even with the availability of appropriate developmental services, children with CHD are not correctly followed, highlighting the need of a specific program of care for a better outcome. Local barriers that prevent access of care of those children must be identified.

Mechanical Circulatory Support for the Failing Sub-Aortic Right Ventricle in Adults

Patients with ccTGA or d-TGA managed via atrial switch (Mustard or Senning operations) have biventricular circulations with a sub-aortic right ventricle (2V-RV). Other than in a tiny percentage of ccTGA patients, premature heart failure (HF) is common, driven by chronic RV dilatation and dysfunction and/or tricuspid regurgitation. These patients are different from the general HF population in that they are younger, more heterogeneous, are predisposed to pulmonary hypertension and present unique and complex surgical challenges. Despite their young age, they experience disproportionately poor access to advanced therapies and are often disqualified for transplant by pulmonary hypertension, HLA sensitization, program risk-tolerance and psychosocial issues. Mechanical support of the subaortic RV with ventricular assist device (subaortic RVAD, also known as SVAD), although technically challenging, can be an effective alternative to palliative care and offers high likelihood of bridging patients to heart transplant candidacy. In addition, temporary trans-catheter SVAD Impella support has been advantageous for stabilization of decompensated 2V-RV patients or as bridge to durable SVAD support. Improved awareness of and access to specialist ACHD-HF teams offering mechanical support (and transplantation) for 2V-RV patients is increasingly urgent for this aging population, and will improve options and outcomes for these patients as HF emerges.

Mechanisms of perioperative brain damage in children with congenital heart disease

Congenital heart disease, particularly cyanotic congenital heart disease (CCHD), may lead to a neurodevelopmental delay through central nervous system injury, more unstable central nervous system development, and increased vulnerability of the nervous system. Neurodevelopmental disease is the most serious disorder of childhood, affecting the quality of life of children and their families. Therefore, the monitoring and optimization of nerve damage treatments are important. The factors contributing to neurodevelopmental disease are primarily related to preoperative, intraoperative, postoperative, genetic, and environmental causes, with intraoperative causes being the most influential. Nevertheless, few studies have examined these factors, particularly the influencing factors during early postoperative care. Children with congenital heart disease may experience brain damage during early heart intensive care due to unstable haemodynamics and total body oxygen transfer, particularly early postoperative inflammatory reactions in the brain, blood glucose levels, and other factors that potentially influence long-term neural development. This study analyses the forms of structural and functional brain damage in the early postoperative period, along with the recent evolution of research on its contributing factors.

Decreased cerebral oxygen saturation levels during direct laryngoscopy with spontaneous ventilation in children

INTRODUCTION

Direct laryngoscopy in children is usually performed with spontaneous ventilation and monitored by pulse oximetry. It is currently unknown if spontaneous ventilation has an effect on cerebral oxygenation. We hypothesized that cerebral oxygenation may be impeded during direct laryngoscopy with spontaneous ventilation in children.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to determine if children who undergo direct laryngoscopy under general anesthesia with spontaneous breathing experience significant reductions in cerebral oxygen saturation levels, and whether or not these reductions are accompanied by decreases in peripheral oxygen saturation levels.

METHODS

This pilot study included 16 consecutive children who underwent direct laryngoscopy under general anesthesia and spontaneous ventilation. The INVOS™ system, which is currently used to monitor cerebral oxygen saturation levels during neurosurgery and cardiothoracic surgery, consists of a processing unit and 2 sensors that are applied to the patient's forehead. We used it to record cerebral oxygenation levels throughout the procedure. Peripheral pulse oximetry was recorded simultaneously, and the results were compared to the levels recorded by the INVOS™ system.

RESULTS

Cerebral oxygen saturation levels decreased by more than 20% from baseline in 7/10 children with tracheostomy and in 2/6 children without tracheostomy, while peripheral oxygen saturation levels remained intact in all the children. The mean time from induction of anesthesia to significant decrease in the cerebral oxygenation level (rSO2) was 14 ± 6 min for the tracheostomy group and 14.5 ± 1.5 min for the no tracheostomy group.

CONCLUSIONS

Children who undergo direct laryngoscopy under general anesthesia with spontaneous ventilation may display reductions in brain oxygenation levels that are not detected by standard pulse oximetry, which reflects only peripheral oxygenation levels. Further study is required to explore the possible effect of this phenomenon in children who undergo direct laryngoscopy.

A low incidence of preoperative neurosonographic abnormalities in neonates with heart defects

BACKGROUND AND AIM

To investigate whether neonates with prenatally detected congenital heart defects (CHD) demonstrate cerebral abnormalities on early preoperative cranial ultrasound (CUS), compared to healthy neonates, and to measure brain structures to assess brain growth and development in both groups.

STUDY DESIGN, SUBJECTS AND OUTCOME MEASURES

Prospective cohort study with controls. Between September 2013 and May 2016 consecutive cases of prenatally detected severe isolated CHD were included. Neonatal CUS was performed shortly after birth, before surgery and in a healthy control group. Blinded images were reviewed for brain abnormalities and various measurements of intracranial structures were compared.

RESULTS

CUS was performed in 59 healthy controls and 50 CHD cases. Physiological CUS variants were present in 54% of controls and in 52% of CHD cases. Abnormalities requiring additional monitoring (both significant and minor) were identified in four controls (7%) and five CHD neonates (10%). Significant abnormalities were only identified in four CHD neonates (8%) and never in controls. A separate analysis of an additional 8 CHD neonates after endovascular intervention demonstrated arterial stroke in two cases that underwent balloon atrioseptostomy (BAS). Cerebral measurements were smaller in CHD neonates, except for the cerebrospinal fluid measurements, which were similar to the controls.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of significant preoperative CUS abnormalities in CHD cases was lower than previously reported, which may be partially caused by a guarding effect of a prenatal diagnosis. Arterial stroke occurred only in cases after BAS. As expected, neonates with CHD display slightly smaller head size and cerebral growth.

Social and Behavioral Difficulties in 10-Year-Old Children With Congenital Heart Disease: Prevalence and Risk Factors

Children with congenital heart disease (CHD) may be at increased risk for neurodevelopmental impairments. Long-term behavioral profiles and respective risk factors are less frequently described. The aim of this study was to evaluate multidimensional behavioral outcomes and associated medical, psychological, and social risk factors in children with complex CHD. At 10-years of age, 125 children with CHD were assessed for general behavioral difficulties, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)-related behavior, and social interaction problems and were compared to normative data. Medical and cardiac factors, IQ, maternal mental health at 4 years of age and parental socioeconomic status were tested as predictors for all behavioral outcomes. Children with CHD showed no significant differences in general behavioral difficulties. However, increased ADHD-related symptoms (p < 0.05) and difficulties in social interaction (p < 0.05) were observed. In 23% of the children, a combination of ADHD-related symptoms and social interaction problems was reported by parents. In multivariate analyses, IQ (p < 0.01) and maternal mental health (p < 0.03) at 4 years of age were found to be predictive for all behavioral outcomes at 10 years while medical and cardiac risk factors were not. Our findings reveal significant difficulties in ADHD-related symptoms and social interaction problems with a significant comorbidity. Behavioral difficulties were not detected with a screening tool but with disorder-specific questionnaires. Furthermore, we demonstrate the importance of maternal mental health during early childhood on later behavioral outcomes of children with CHD. This underlines the importance of identifying and supporting parents with mental health issues at an early stage in order to support the family and improve the child's neurodevelopment.

Toddler Neurodevelopmental Outcomes Are Associated With School-Age IQ in Children With Single Ventricle Physiology

To examine whether neurodevelopment at preschool age predicts IQ levels and needs for special education services in school-age children with single ventricle (SV) physiology. Thirty-five patients with SV physiology were assessed using the Bayley Scale of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID) II or III at 3 years and the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-Fourth Edition (WISC) at 8 years. Whether the children were receiving special education services was also determined. Factors associated with the mental developmental index (MDI) of the BSID, the full-scale IQ (FSIQ) of the WISC, and special education services were also analyzed. The MDI and FSIQ of children with SV physiology were significantly lower than the values in healthy children (P < 0.01). The MDI at 3 years was moderately correlated with FSIQ at 8 years (P < 0.01, R² = 0.41). Ten patients (28.6%) received special education services in their school. Children with MDI <85 were more likely than those with MDI ≥85 to require special education services at school age (53% and 10%, respectively, P < 0.01). Weight at birth and stage II were correlated with the MDI, extracorporeal circulation time at stage II was correlated with FSIQ, and age at Fontan operation was correlated with FSIQ and special education services. The toddler neurodevelopment index may predict not only IQ levels but also the need for special education services in school-age children. Children with low neurodevelopmental scores need to be followed closely for a long time.

Functional outcomes in children with anatomically repaired transposition of the great arteries with regard to congenital ventricular septal defect and coronary pattern

OBJECTIVE

Despite decreasing mortality, functional impairments in children with transposition of the great arteries (TGA) are still a concern. This study analyses health-related physical fitness (HRPF), arterial stiffness and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with anatomically repaired TGA regarding congenital ventricular septal defect (VSD) and coronary patterns.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

68 children with anatomically repaired TGA with or without VSD (12.9±3.7 years, 19.1% female) were investigated between August 2014 and October 2017. HRPF was assessed by five tests of the FITNESSGRAM, arterial stiffness was measured by oscillometric measurement using Mobil-O-Graph and HRQoL was analysed with a self-report questionnaire (KINDL-R). All test results were compared with a healthy reference cohort (n=2116, 49.1% female) adjusted for sex and age.

RESULTS

Children with anatomically repaired TGA had significantly worse HRPF (z-score: -0.58±0.81, p<0.001), increased pulse wave velocity (TGA: 4.9±0.3 m/s vs healthy: 4.8±0.3 m/s, p=0.028) and central systolic blood pressure (TGA: 105.9±5.8 mm Hg vs healthy: 103.3±5.7 mm Hg, p=0.001). No difference was found for HRQoL between the two groups (total HRQoL score: TGA: 76.5±10.2 vs healthy: 75.2±10.1, p=0.315). Neither the coronary pattern nor a congenital VSD resulted in significant differences in all functional outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Children with anatomically repaired TGA exhibit impaired HRPF and increased arterial stiffness whereas their HRQoL is normal. The underlying coronary pattern seems to have no influence on the functional outcome, nor does an accompanied congenital VSD.

'Big issues' in neurodevelopment for children and adults with congenital heart disease

It is established that neurodevelopmental disability (NDD) is common in neonates undergoing complex surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD); however, the trajectory of disability over the lifetime of individuals with CHD is unknown. Several ‘big issues’ remain undetermined and further research is needed in order to optimise patient care and service delivery, to assess the efficacy of intervention strategies and to promote best outcomes in individuals of all ages with CHD. This review article discusses ‘gaps’ in our knowledge of NDD in CHD and proposes future directions.

Five-year survival, performance, and neurodevelopmental outcome following cardiopulmonary resuscitation after pediatric cardiac surgery, preliminary investigation in a single-center experience

Background and aim

Children who suffer cardiopulmonary arrest (CPA) after cardiac surgery frequently survive with return of spontaneous circulation. However, their neurodevelopmental outcomes and performance are still unclear. The aim of this study is to evaluate the midterm neurodevelopmental outcome and overall performance of children who survived CPA following cardiac surgery.

Materials and methods

In this cohort study, we followed-up children who received cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) post cardiac surgery during 2012-2013. We assessed their 5-year survival, functional, and neurodevelopmental outcomes using two performance scales: Pediatric Cerebral Performance Category (PCPC) and Pediatric Overall Performance Category (POPC). Both scales ranged from 1 for normal to 6 for brain death/death. We compared CPR group with a matching group (1:1) that had similar characteristics and conditions but no CPR.

Results

Out of 758 postoperative cardiac children, 15 (2%) children had 19 episodes of CPA. Their median age was 10 months (0.5-168). Survival rates were 12/15 (80%) on hospital discharge and 10/15 (66%) after 5 years. Among 12 survivors, two patients (17%) scored 6, one (8%) scored 4, five (42%) scored 2, and four (33%) scored 1 on both PCPC and POPC. The median PCPC and POPC scores were [2, (interquartile range: 1-6) and 1, (interquartile range: 1-3, p = 0.018] for CPR and matching group, respectively. Regression analysis identifies duration of CPR, number of CPR session, and late-occurring CPA as risk factors for poor outcome.

Conclusion

Two-thirds of children requiring CPR post cardiac surgery survived after 5 years. Their neurodevelopmental and functional evaluation demonstrated worse outcome in comparison with their matching cases. CPR duration, number of CPA events, and late CPA were risk factors for poor outcome. Rehabilitation and special education programs might be needed for these groups of children with special needs.

Neurocognitive Difficulties Among Youth with POTS within an Intensive Pain Rehabilitation Program

OBJECTIVE

Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) commonly report cognitive difficulties, though there is limited information regarding the objective measurement of neurocognitive deficits in this population. This study described the rates of subjectively experienced and objectively measured neurocognitive difficulties and explored effects of medications on neurocognitive functioning among AYAs with POTS admitted to an intensive outpatient pain rehabilitation program.

METHODS

Participants in a pain rehabilitation program diagnosed with POTS (N = 96; ages 12-22) were included in the study. Medical characteristics, reported cognitive complaints, and neurocognitive assessment results were collected through retrospective medical record review. We calculated descriptive statistics and Pearson's χ2 or Fisher's exact tests, where appropriate.

RESULTS

While 96% of this sample reported subjective cognitive complaints, as a group, they performed in the Average range on standardized measures of intellectual functioning, attention, and memory. The majority did not demonstrate any normative (73%) or relative (54%) weaknesses in attention or memory. Those prescribed an antiepileptic (n = 19) were less likely to have visual-spatial memory weaknesses but more likely to have attention weaknesses.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite a high frequency of reported cognitive difficulties, most AYAs with POTS did not demonstrate neurocognitive impairment on standardized, one-on-one assessment. Suggestions for further study of biopsychosocial contributors to neurocognitive difficulties and for clinical use of neurocognitive assessments in this population were provided.

Improving neurodevelopment in infants with complex congenital heart disease

Worldwide, more than 400,000 infants are born each year with complex congenital heart disease (CCHD) requiring surgical intervention within the first months of life. Although improvements in perioperative care have resulted in increased rates of survival, more than half of infants with CCHD have neurodevelopmental impairments affecting subsequent educational achievements, job opportunities, and mental health. Brain maturity and impaired outcomes in infants with CCHD are similar to those of prematurely born infants. Developmentally supportive care, including foundational application of kangaroo care (KC), improves neurodevelopment in premature infants. Provision of developmentally supportive care with KC during the early hospitalization of infants with CCHD has the potential to similarly improve neurodevelopment. The purposes of the article are to describe common congenital heart defects, describe developmentally supportive care with an emphasis on KC, and to offer specific recommendations for KC and research in infants with CCHD.

Hippocampal alterations and functional correlates in adolescents and young adults with congenital heart disease

There is a high prevalence of neurodevelopmental impairments in individuals living with congenital heart disease (CHD) and the neural correlates of these impairments are not yet fully understood. Recent studies have shown that hippocampal volume and shape differences may provide unique biomarkers for neurodevelopmental disorders. The hippocampus is vulnerable to early life injury, especially in populations at risk for hypoxemia or hemodynamic instability such as in neonates with CHD. We compared hippocampal gray and white matter volume and morphometry between youth born with CHD (n = 50) aged 16-24 years and healthy peers (n = 48). We also explored whether hippocampal gray and white matter volume and morphometry are associated with executive function and self-regulation deficits. To do so, participants underwent 3T brain magnetic resonance imaging and completed the self-reported Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Adult version. We found that youth with CHD had smaller hippocampal volumes (all statistics corrected for false discovery rate; q < 0.05) as compared to controls. We also observed significant smaller surface area bilaterally and inward displacement on the left hippocampus predominantly on the ventral side (q < 0.10) in the CHD group that were not present in the controls. Left CA1 and CA2/3 were negatively associated with working memory (p < .05). Here, we report, for the first-time, hippocampal morphometric alterations in youth born with CHD when compared to healthy peers, as well as, structure-function relationships between hippocampal volumes and executive function. These differences may reflect long lasting alterations in brain development specific to individual with CHD.

Neuromotor performance in infants before and after early open-heart surgery and risk factors for delayed development at 6 months of age

BACKGROUND

Early identification of infants with CHD at heightened risk of developmental delays can inform surveillance priorities. This study investigated pre-operative and post-operative neuromotor performance in infants undergoing open-heart surgery, and their developmental status at 6 months of age, to identify risk factors and inform care pathways.

METHODS

Infants undergoing open-heart surgery before 4 months of age were recruited into a prospective cohort study. Neuromotor performance was assessed pre-operatively and post-operatively using the Test of Infant Motor Performance and Prechtl's Assessment of General Movements. Development was assessed at 6 months of age using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire third edition. Pre-operative and post-operative General Movements performance was compared using McNemar's test and test of infant motor performance z-scores using Wilcoxon's signed rank test. Risk factors for delayed development at 6 months were explored using logistic regression.

RESULTS

Sixty infants were included in this study. In the 23 (38%) infants. A total of 60 infants were recruited. In the 23 (38%) infants assessed pre-operatively, there was no significant difference between pre- and post-operative performance on the GMs (p=0.63) or TIMP (p=0.28). At discharge, 15 (26%) infants presented with abnormal GMs, and the median TIMP z-score was -0.93 (IQR: -1.4 to -0.69). At 6 months, 28 (52.8%) infants presented with gross motor delay on the ASQ-3, significantly negatively associated with gestational age (p=0.03), length of hospital stay (p=0.04) and discharge TIMP score (p=0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Post-operative assessment using the GMs and TIMP may be useful to identify infants requiring individualised care and targeted developmental follow-up. Long-term developmental surveillance beyond 6 months of age is recommended.

The Safe Addition of Nitric Oxide into the Sweep Gas of the Extracorporeal Circuit during Cardiopulmonary Bypass and Extracorporeal Life Support

Low cardiac output syndrome and the systemic inflammatory response are consequences of the cardiac surgical perioperative course. The mechanisms responsible are multifactorial, but recent studies have shown that nitric oxide (NO) may be a key component in mitigating some of these processes. Following on from literature reports detailing the use of inhaled NO added to the gas phase of the extracorporeal circuit, we set about developing a technique to perform this addition safely and efficiently. In the setting of cardiopulmonary bypass, the technique was validated in a randomized prospective trial looking at 198 children. The benefits observed in this trial then stimulated the incorporation of NO into all extracorporeal life support (ECLS) circuits. This required additional hardware modifications all of which were able to be performed safely. Initial results from the first series of ECLS patients using NO also appear promising.

Prenatal to postnatal trajectory of brain growth in complex congenital heart disease

Altered brain development is a common feature of the neurological sequelae of complex congenital heart disease (CHD). These alterations include abnormalities in brain size and growth that begin prenatally and persist postnatally. However, the longitudinal trajectory of changes in brain volume from the prenatal to postnatal environment have not been investigated. We aimed to evaluate the trajectory of brain growth in a cohort of patients with complex CHD (n = 16) and healthy controls (n = 15) to test the hypothesis that patients with complex CHD would have smaller total brain volume (TBV) prenatally, which would become increasingly prominent by three months of age. Participants underwent fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at a mean of 32 weeks gestation, a preoperative/neonatal MRI shortly after birth, a postoperative MRI (CHD only), and a 3-month MRI to evaluate the trajectory of brain growth. Three-dimensional volumetric analysis was applied to the MRI data to measure TBV, as well as tissue-specific volumes of the cortical gray matter (CGM), white matter (WM), subcortical (deep nuclear) gray matter (SCGM), cerebellum, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A random coefficients model was used to investigate longitudinal changes in TBV and demonstrated an altered trajectory of brain growth in the CHD population. The estimated slope for TBV from fetal to 3-month MRI was 11.5 cm³ per week for CHD infants compared to 16.7 cm³ per week for controls (p = 0.0002). Brain growth followed a similar trajectory for the CGM (p < 0.0001), SCGM (p = 0.002), and cerebellum (p = 0.005). There was no difference in growth of the WM (p = 0.30) or CSF (p = 0.085). Brain injury was associated with reduced TBV at 3-month MRI (p = 0.02). After removing infants with brain injury from the model, an altered trajectory of brain growth persisted in CHD infants (p = 0.006). These findings extend the existing literature by demonstrating longitudinal impairments in brain development in the CHD population and emphasize the global nature of disrupted brain growth from the prenatal environment through early infancy.

Somatic Development in Children with Congenital Heart Defects

OBJECTIVES

Somatic development is impaired in children with congenital heart defects (CHDs), and head circumference seems to be a strong predictor of neurodevelopmental prognosis. The aim of this study was to generate up-to-date reference values for the somatic development (head circumference, body weight, and length/height) of children with CHDs.

STUDY DESIGN

Our study population consisted of all patients included in the PAN study (Prävalenz angeborener Herzfehler bei Neugeborenen in Deutschland), which was conducted prospectively over a 3-year study period by the Competence Network for Congenital Heart Defects. All children with mild, moderate, and severe CHDs born in 2006-2009 in Germany were enrolled. For computing of z-scores, only children with the following characteristics were included: appropriate for gestational age, nonsyndromic disease, term or post-term delivery, and no cardiac surgery.

RESULTS

There were 2818 patients included. New z-scores for the described somatic measures of children with mild, moderate, and severe CHDs were computed. Comparisons with the KiGGS study (Gesundheit von Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland) and the Berlin Longitudinal Study revealed significantly lower measurements for all measures-most notably in children with severe CHDs and/or cardiac surgery. In our cohort, no catch-up growth was seen after cardiac surgery.

CONCLUSION

Children with severe CHDs demonstrated the most abnormal pattern in growth, including head circumference before and after cardiac surgery, which is indicative of accompanying brain pathology unrelated to operative injury.

Genetic contribution to neurodevelopmental outcomes in congenital heart disease: are some patients predetermined to have developmental delay?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Neurodevelopmental impairment is common in children with moderate to severe congenital heart disease (CHD). As children live longer and healthier lives, research has focused on identifying causes of neurodevelopmental morbidity that significantly impact long-term quality of life. This review will address the role of genetic factors in predicting neurodevelopmental outcome in CHD.

RECENT FINDINGS

A robust literature suggests that among children with various forms of CHD, those with known genetic/extracardiac anomalies are at highest risk of neurodevelopmental impairment. Advances in genetic technology have identified genetic causes of CHD in an increasing percentage of patients. Further, emerging data suggest substantial overlap between mutations in children with CHD and those that have previously been associated with neurodevelopmental disorders.

SUMMARY

Innate and patient factors appear to be more important in predicting neurodevelopmental outcome than medical/surgical variables. Future research is needed to establish a broader understanding of the mutations that contribute to neurodevelopmental disorders and the variations in expressivity and penetrance.