1
|
Majani NG, Koster JR, Kalezi ZE, Letara N, Nkya D, Mongela S, Kubhoja S, Sharau G, Mlawi V, Grobbee DE, Slieker MG, Chillo P, Janabi M, Kisenge P. Spectrum of Heart Diseases in Children in a National Cardiac Referral Center Tanzania, Eastern Africa: A Six-Year Overview. Glob Heart 2024; 19:61. [PMID: 39100942 PMCID: PMC11295910 DOI: 10.5334/gh.1342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2024] [Accepted: 07/10/2024] [Indexed: 08/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background While communicable diseases have long been the primary focus of healthcare in Africa, the rising impact of paediatric and congenital heart disease (CHD) cannot be overlooked. This research aimed to estimate the frequency and pattern of heart diseases in children who underwent their first echocardiography at a national cardiac referral hospital in Tanzania. Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted on children aged 0 to 18 years referred for first-time cardiological evaluation from January 2017 to December 2022. Retrieval of social and echocardiogram data and descriptive analysis were performed. Results There were 6,058 children with complete reports. Of these, 52.8% (3,198) had heart disease, of whom 2,559 (80%) had CHD, while (340/639; 53.2%) with acquired heart disease (AHD) had rheumatic heart disease (RHD). Children with CHD had a median age 1.0 years (IQR: 0.3-3.5) and were predominantly 51.2% male. Children with RHD had a median age 9.7 years (IQR: 3.2-13.8) with equal gender distribution. Shunt lesions were common in 1,487 (58.1%), mainly VSD 19.3%, PDA 19.1%, ASD 15.1%, and atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) 4.6%. Pulmonary valve stenosis was in 97 (3.8%). Around 35% (718) had cyanotic CHD, with TOF being most common (13.3%), followed by double outlet right ventricle (DORV) (3.6%). Compared to global average truncus arteriosus was higher in 69 (2.3%) children. In contrast, TGA and hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) were lower than the estimated global average seen in 2.3% and 0.5% of the cases, respectively. Atresia of the right-side valves was more common (174 vs. 24), and approximately 40% of the patients referred for first-time echocardiographic evaluation required hospitalization. Conclusion Congenital heart disease is the primary cause of heart disease in children presenting at a national referral hospital, surpassing RHD. With its distinct distribution pattern, acyanotic lesions are more frequent than cyanotic heart diseases. The observed late referral tendencies suggest improving the referral system, enhancing CHD awareness among healthcare professionals, and instituting nationwide screening programs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Naizihijwa G. Majani
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Joëlle R. Koster
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Zawadi E. Kalezi
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Nuru Letara
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Deogratias Nkya
- Department of Pediatrics, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Stella Mongela
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Sulende Kubhoja
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Godwin Sharau
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Vivienne Mlawi
- Department of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Diederick E. Grobbee
- Julius Global Health, Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martijn. G. Slieker
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Wilhelmina Children’s Hospital, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Pilly Chillo
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS), Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Mohamed Janabi
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Peter Kisenge
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Khainza RE, Oketcho M, Aliku T, Namuyonga J, Ndagire E, Mwambu T, Muhoozi RM, Obongnyinge B, Tumwebaze H, Mbabazi N, Akech T, Nakato A, Killen A, Ofumbi GO, Lwabi P, Omagino J, Lubega S. Primary surgical repair of tetralogy of fallot at the Uganda Heart Institute: a ten-year review of 30day mortality and morbidity. BMC Cardiovasc Disord 2024; 24:322. [PMID: 38918721 PMCID: PMC11202334 DOI: 10.1186/s12872-024-03991-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common form of cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD) worldwide. It accounts for 7% of CHD cases in Uganda and leads to fatal outcomes in the long term without surgery. Surgery is often delayed in developing countries like Uganda due to limited resources. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine the early surgical outcomes of patients with TOF who underwent primary intracardiac repair at the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) and to identify factors associated. METHODOLOGY This retrospective chart review evaluated outcomes of primary TOF repair patients at UHI from February 2012 to October 2022. Patient outcomes were assessed from surgery until 30 days post-operation. RESULTS Out of the 104 patients who underwent primary TOF repair at UHI, records of 88 patients (84.6%) were available for review. Males accounted for 48.9% (n = 43). The median age at the time of operation was 4 years (with an interquartile range of 2.5-8.0 years), ranging from 9 months to 16 years. Genetic syndromes were present in 5/88 (5.7%). These included 2 patients with trisomy 21, 2 with Noonan's, and 1 with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Early postoperative outcomes for patients included: residual ventricular septal defects in 35/88 (39.8%), right ventricular dysfunction in 33/88 (37.5%), residual pulmonary regurgitation in 27/88 (30.7%), residual right ventricular outflow tract obstruction in 27/88 (30.0%), pleural effusion in 24/88 (27.3%), arrhythmias in 24/88(27.3%), post-operative infections in 23/88(26.1%) and left ventricular systolic dysfunction in 9/88 (10.2%). Out of the children who underwent surgery after one year of age, 8% (7 children) died within the first 30 days. There was a correlation between mortality and post-operative ventilation time, cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross-clamp time, preoperative oxygen saturations, RV and LV dysfunction and the operating team. CONCLUSION The most frequent outcomes after surgery were residual ventricular septal defects and right ventricular failure. In our study, the 30-day mortality rate following TOF repair was 8%. Deceased patients had lower pre-operative oxygen levels, longer CPB and cross-clamp times, longer post-operative ventilation, RV/LV dysfunction, and were more likely operated by the local team.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Esther Khainza
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda.
- Department of paediatrics, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda.
| | - Michael Oketcho
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery UHI, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Twalib Aliku
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
- Uganda Christian University School of Medicine, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Judith Namuyonga
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Paediatrics, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emma Ndagire
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Tom Mwambu
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery UHI, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Bernard Obongnyinge
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Hilda Tumwebaze
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Nestor Mbabazi
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
- Department of paediatrics, Mulago National Referral Hospital, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Teddy Akech
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Aisha Nakato
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - Angelline Killen
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Peter Lwabi
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| | - John Omagino
- Department of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery UHI, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Sulaiman Lubega
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Searchinger C, Nalubwama H, Pulle J, Mehta R, Tumwbaze H, Kyarimpa R, Mwima R, Atukunda E, Bua B, Sarnacki R, Sherman MG, Oketcho M, Zimmerman M, Nakitto M, Longenecker CT, Webel A, Scheel A, Lwabi PS, Sable CA. Quality of Life in Ugandan Children and Young Adults After Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease: Mixed Methods Approach. Glob Heart 2024; 19:36. [PMID: 38638125 PMCID: PMC11025577 DOI: 10.5334/gh.1320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is a critical issue for patients undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease (CHD) but has never been assessed in a low-income country. We conducted a cross-sectional mixed methods study with age-matched healthy siblings serving as controls at the Uganda Heart Institute. Methods One-hundred fifteen CHD pediatric and young adult patients and sibling control participants were recruited. Health-related quality of life was assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Version 4.0 in participants ages 5-17 and 36-Item Short Form Survey for young adults aged 18-25. A subset of 27 participants completed face-to-face interviews to supplement quantitative findings. Results Eighty-six pediatric (age 5-17) sibling and parent pairs completed Peds QOL surveys, and 29 young adult (age 18-25) sibling pairs completed SF-36 surveys. One third of patients had surgery in Uganda. Ventricular septal defects and tetralogy of Fallot were the most common diagnoses. Health-related quality of life scores in patients were lower across all domains compared to control participants in children. Reductions in physical and emotional domains of HRQOL were also statistically significant for young adults. Variables associated with lower HRQOL score on multivariate analysis in pediatric patients were younger age in the physical and emotional domains, greater number of surgeries in the physical domain and surgery outside Uganda in the school domain. The only predictor of lower HRQOL score in young adults was surgery outside Uganda in the social domain. Qualitative interviews identified a number of themes that correlated with survey results including abandonment by family, isolation from peers and community, financial hardship and social stigmatization. Conclusion Health-related quality of life was lower in Ugandan patients after CHD surgery than siblings. Younger patients and those who had surgery outside of Uganda had lower HRQOL. These data have important implications for patients undergoing CHD surgery in LMIC and have potential to inform interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chloe Searchinger
- Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
- Division of Cardiology and Global Health Initiative, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Rittal Mehta
- Division of Cardiology and Global Health Initiative, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Rachel Sarnacki
- Division of Cardiology and Global Health Initiative, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Meredith G. Sherman
- Division of Cardiology and Global Health Initiative, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Chris T. Longenecker
- Division of Cardiology and Department of Global Health University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle WA, USA
| | - Allison Webel
- University of Washington School of Nursing, Seattle WA, USA
| | - Amy Scheel
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Craig A. Sable
- Division of Cardiology and Global Health Initiative, Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Klassen SL, Okello E, Ferrer JME, Alizadeh F, Barango P, Chillo P, Chimalizeni Y, Dagnaw WW, Eiselé JL, Eberly L, Gomanju A, Gupta N, Koirala B, Kpodonu J, Kwan G, Mailosi BGD, Mbau L, Mutagaywa R, Pfaff C, Piñero D, Pinto F, Rusingiza E, Sanni UA, Sanyahumbi A, Shakya U, Sharma SK, Sherpa K, Sinabulya I, Wroe EB, Bukhman G, Mocumbi A. Decentralization and Integration of Advanced Cardiac Care for the World's Poorest Billion Through the PEN-Plus Strategy for Severe Chronic Non-Communicable Disease. Glob Heart 2024; 19:33. [PMID: 38549727 PMCID: PMC10976983 DOI: 10.5334/gh.1313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Rheumatic and congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathies, and hypertensive heart disease are major causes of suffering and death in low- and lower middle-income countries (LLMICs), where the world's poorest billion people reside. Advanced cardiac care in these counties is still predominantly provided by specialists at urban tertiary centers, and is largely inaccessible to the rural poor. This situation is due to critical shortages in diagnostics, medications, and trained healthcare workers. The Package of Essential NCD Interventions - Plus (PEN-Plus) is an integrated care model for severe chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) that aims to decentralize services and increase access. PEN-Plus strategies are being initiated by a growing number of LLMICs. We describe how PEN-Plus addresses the need for advanced cardiac care and discuss how a global group of cardiac organizations are working through the PEN-Plus Cardiac expert group to promote a shared operational strategy for management of severe cardiac disease in high-poverty settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sheila L. Klassen
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Emmy Okello
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Faraz Alizadeh
- Department of Cardiology, Boston Children’s hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, United States
| | - Prebo Barango
- World Health Organization, Regional Office for Africa, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Pilly Chillo
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Department of Internal Medicine, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Yamikani Chimalizeni
- Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre, Malawi
| | - Wubaye Walelgne Dagnaw
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
| | | | - Lauren Eberly
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Penn Cardiovascular Outcomes, Quality, and Evaluative Research Center, Cardiovascular Institute, Penn Cardiovascular Center for Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Anu Gomanju
- Kathmandu Institute of Child Health, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Global Alliance for Rheumatic and Congenital Hearts, Philadelphia, United States
| | - Neil Gupta
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Program in Global NCDs and Social Change, Harvard University, Boston, United States
| | - Bhagawan Koirala
- Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery – Manmohan Cardiothoracic Vascular and Transplant Centre, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Jacques Kpodonu
- Division of Cardiac Surgery, Department of Surgery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, United States
| | - Gene Kwan
- Section of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston Medical Center, Boston, United States
- Partners In Health, Boston, United States
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard University, Boston, United States
| | | | | | - Reuben Mutagaywa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
- Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Colin Pfaff
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Daniel Piñero
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Instituto de Ecología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Fausto Pinto
- Cardiology Department, Centro Hospitalar Universitário Lisboa Norte, CAML, CCUL, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Emmanuel Rusingiza
- Department of Pediatrics, Pediatric Cardiology Unit, University Teaching Hospital of Kigali, Kigali, Rwanda
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, School of Medicine and Pharmacy, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda
| | - Usman Abiola Sanni
- Partners in Health, Sierra Leone
- Department of Paediatrics, Federal Medical Centre, Birnin Kebbi, Nigeria
| | - Amy Sanyahumbi
- Pediatric Cardiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Texas Children’s Hospital, Houston, United States
- Baylor Center of Excellence, Lilongwe, Malawi
| | - Urmila Shakya
- Pediatric Cardiology Department, Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, Kathmandu, Nepal
- National Academy of Medical Sciences, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Sanjib Kumar Sharma
- Cardiology and Internal Medicine, B. P. Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Dharan, Nepal
| | - Kunjang Sherpa
- Department of Cardiology, National Academy of Medical Sciences, Bir Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Isaac Sinabulya
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University, College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Emily B. Wroe
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
| | - Gene Bukhman
- Center for Integration Science, Division of Global Health Equity, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, United States
- Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard University, Boston, United States
| | - Ana Mocumbi
- Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
- Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Maputo, Mozambique
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Tandircioglu UA, Turer OB, Soyer T, Ayaz E, Ozcan HN, Yigit S, Celik HT. Effect of prostaglandin-E1 treatment on pyloric wall thickness in newborns with ductal-dependent critical congenital heart diseases. Pediatr Surg Int 2023; 39:144. [PMID: 36856877 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-023-05428-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) is used in the medical treatment of ductal-dependent critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) in neonates. Apnea/bradycardia, hypotension, hypokalemia, and fever are the most important side effects of PGE1. Moreover, gastric outlet obstruction has been reported in a few case reports. A prospective study was conducted to investigate the effect of PGE1 treatment on pyloric wall thickness in newborns with congenital heart diseases. METHODS A total of 22 newborns with ductal-dependent CCHD having PGE1 infusion longer than a week were included in this study. Ultrasonographic measurements were performed before and one week after the PGE1 infusion to evaluate the pyloric thickness and length. The protocol was registered with ClinicalTrials.govidentifier NCT04496050. RESULTS A total of 22 neonates with mean gestational age 38 ± 1.8 weeks and birth weight 3105 ± 611 gr were enrolled in the study. The median time of the second ultrasound was seven days. The median cumulative dose of PGE1 given during this period was 108 mcg/kg/min. There was a statistically significant increase in post-treatment pyloric thickness and length compared to pre-treatment measurements (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). None of the patients with increased thickness and pyloric muscle length presented any symptoms. CONCLUSION PGE1 treatment significantly increased the pyloric thickness and length after at least one-week treatment. PGE1 with its action mechanism is likely to cause gastric outlet obstruction, although not exactly pyloric stenosis on the condition used for a long time.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Umit Ayşe Tandircioglu
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
| | - Ozlem Boybeyi Turer
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Tutku Soyer
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Ercan Ayaz
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - H Nursun Ozcan
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Division of Pediatric Radiology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sule Yigit
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Hasan Tolga Celik
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dimopoulos K, Constantine A, Clift P, Condliffe R, Moledina S, Jansen K, Inuzuka R, Veldtman GR, Cua CL, Tay ELW, Opotowsky AR, Giannakoulas G, Alonso-Gonzalez R, Cordina R, Capone G, Namuyonga J, Scott CH, D’Alto M, Gamero FJ, Chicoine B, Gu H, Limsuwan A, Majekodunmi T, Budts W, Coghlan G, Broberg CS, Constantine A, Clift P, Condliffe R, Moledina S, Jansen K. Cardiovascular Complications of Down Syndrome: Scoping Review and Expert Consensus. Circulation 2023; 147:425-441. [PMID: 36716257 PMCID: PMC9977420 DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.122.059706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Dimopoulos
- Adult Congenital Heart Centre and Centre for Pulmonary Hypertension, Royal Brompton Hospital, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (K.D., A.C.).,National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, United Kingdom (K.D., A.C.)
| | - Andrew Constantine
- Adult Congenital Heart Centre and Centre for Pulmonary Hypertension, Royal Brompton Hospital, Royal Brompton and Harefield Hospitals, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (K.D., A.C.).,National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, United Kingdom (K.D., A.C.)
| | - Paul Clift
- Department of Cardiology, Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, United Kingdom (P.C.)
| | - Robin Condliffe
- Pulmonary Vascular Disease Unit, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, United Kingdom (R.C.)
| | - Shahin Moledina
- National Paediatric Pulmonary Hypertension Service UK, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom (S.M.).,Institute of Cardiovascular Science, University College London, United Kingdom (S.M.)
| | - Katrijn Jansen
- Adult Congenital and Paediatric Heart Unit, Freeman Hospital Newcastle Upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom (K.J.).,Population Health Sciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom (K.J.)
| | - Ryo Inuzuka
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Japan (R.I.)
| | - Gruschen R. Veldtman
- Scottish Adult Congenital Cardiac Service, Golden Jubilee Hospital, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom (G.R.V.)
| | - Clifford L. Cua
- The Heart Center, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, Columbus, OH (C.L.C.)
| | - Edgar Lik Wui Tay
- Department of Cardiology, National University Hospital Singapore (E.T.L.W.)
| | - Alexander R. Opotowsky
- The Heart Institute, Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, OH (A.R.O.)
| | - George Giannakoulas
- Department of Cardiology, AHEPA University Hospital School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece (G.G.)
| | - Rafael Alonso-Gonzalez
- Division of Cardiology, Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network, Peter Munk Cardiovascular Center, University of Toronto, Canada (R.A.-G.).,Toronto Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program, Canada (R.A.-G.)
| | - Rachael Cordina
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia (R.C.)
| | - George Capone
- Down Syndrome Clinical and Research Center, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD (G. Capone).,Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD (G. Capone)
| | - Judith Namuyonga
- Department of Paediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala (J.N.).,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda (J.N.)
| | | | - Michele D’Alto
- Department of Cardiology, University “L. Vanvitelli”–Monaldi Hospital, Naples, Italy (M.D.)
| | - Francisco J. Gamero
- Department of Cardiovascular Surgery, Benjamin Bloom Children’s Hospital, El Salvador (F.J.G.)
| | - Brian Chicoine
- Advocate Medical Group Adult Down Syndrome Center, Park Ridge, IL (B.C.)
| | - Hong Gu
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, China (H.G.)
| | - Alisa Limsuwan
- Division of Pediatric Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand (A.L.)
| | - Tosin Majekodunmi
- Department of Cardiology, Euracare Multi-specialist Hospital, Nigeria (T.M.)
| | - Werner Budts
- Division of Congenital and Structural Cardiology, University Hospitals Leuven, and Department of Cardiovascular Science, Catholic University Leuven, Belgium (W.B.)
| | - Gerry Coghlan
- Department of Cardiology, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom (G. Coghlan)
| | - Craig S. Broberg
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland (C.S.B.)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Minja NW, Nakagaayi D, Aliku T, Zhang W, Ssinabulya I, Nabaale J, Amutuhaire W, de Loizaga SR, Ndagire E, Rwebembera J, Okello E, Kayima J. Cardiovascular diseases in Africa in the twenty-first century: Gaps and priorities going forward. Front Cardiovasc Med 2022; 9:1008335. [PMID: 36440012 PMCID: PMC9686438 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2022.1008335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2015, the United Nations set important targets to reduce premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) deaths by 33% by 2030. Africa disproportionately bears the brunt of CVD burden and has one of the highest risks of dying from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide. There is currently an epidemiological transition on the continent, where NCDs is projected to outpace communicable diseases within the current decade. Unchecked increases in CVD risk factors have contributed to the growing burden of three major CVDs-hypertension, cardiomyopathies, and atherosclerotic diseases- leading to devastating rates of stroke and heart failure. The highest age standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) due to hypertensive heart disease (HHD) were recorded in Africa. The contributory causes of heart failure are changing-whilst HHD and cardiomyopathies still dominate, ischemic heart disease is rapidly becoming a significant contributor, whilst rheumatic heart disease (RHD) has shown a gradual decline. In a continent where health systems are traditionally geared toward addressing communicable diseases, several gaps exist to adequately meet the growing demand imposed by CVDs. Among these, high-quality research to inform interventions, underfunded health systems with high out-of-pocket costs, limited accessibility and affordability of essential medicines, CVD preventive services, and skill shortages. Overall, the African continent progress toward a third reduction in premature mortality come 2030 is lagging behind. More can be done in the arena of effective policy implementation for risk factor reduction and CVD prevention, increasing health financing and focusing on strengthening primary health care services for prevention and treatment of CVDs, whilst ensuring availability and affordability of quality medicines. Further, investing in systematic country data collection and research outputs will improve the accuracy of the burden of disease data and inform policy adoption on interventions. This review summarizes the current CVD burden, important gaps in cardiovascular medicine in Africa, and further highlights priority areas where efforts could be intensified in the next decade with potential to improve the current rate of progress toward achieving a 33% reduction in CVD mortality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neema W. Minja
- Rheumatic Heart Disease Research Collaborative, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Kilimanjaro Clinical Research Institute (KCRI), Moshi, Tanzania
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Doreen Nakagaayi
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Heart Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Twalib Aliku
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Wanzhu Zhang
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Isaac Ssinabulya
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Juliet Nabaale
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Willington Amutuhaire
- Department of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Sarah R. de Loizaga
- Heart Institute, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, United States
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Emma Ndagire
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
| | | | - Emmy Okello
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| | - James Kayima
- Department of Adult Cardiology, Uganda Heart Institute, Kampala, Uganda
- Department of Medicine, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Kampala, Uganda
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Pulmonary Hypertension in Children across Africa: The Silent Threat. Int J Pediatr 2021; 2021:9998070. [PMID: 34858504 PMCID: PMC8632426 DOI: 10.1155/2021/9998070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a complex puzzle in Africa, especially among children who present with a cocktail of issues including recurrent pulmonary infections, unoperated congenital heart disease, and advanced rheumatic heart disease. Sickle cell anemia and neonatal complications of transiting from fetal circulation also contribute to the burden of pulmonary hypertension. Mortality from pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) remains high in Africa (18-21%), claiming sufferers in the first 6 months after diagnosis. Unfortunately, PH remains underreported in sub-Saharan Africa since many centers lack the capacity to diagnose and confirm it by the recommended gold standard, right heart catheterization. The unresolved burden of unoperated congenital heart lesions and rheumatic heart disease, among other preventable causes, stand out as major causes of PH in African children. This paper highlights pediatric PAH as a result of major gaps in care and illustrates the need for its prevention as well as for the promotion of research into the most important drivers, to prevent premature mortality in the continent.
Collapse
|
9
|
Aldersley T, Lawrenson J, Human P, Shaboodien G, Cupido B, Comitis G, De Decker R, Fourie B, Swanson L, Joachim A, Magadla P, Ngoepe M, Swanson L, Revell A, Ramesar R, Brooks A, Saacks N, De Koning B, Sliwa K, Anthony J, Osman A, Keavney B, Zühlke L. PROTEA, A Southern African Multicenter Congenital Heart Disease Registry and Biorepository: Rationale, Design, and Initial Results. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:763060. [PMID: 34746065 PMCID: PMC8564377 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.763060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: The PartneRships in cOngeniTal hEart disease (PROTEA) project aims to establish a densely phenotyped and genotyped Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) cohort for southern Africa. This will facilitate research into the epidemiology and genetic determinants of CHD in the region. This paper introduces the PROTEA project, characterizes its initial cohort, from the Western Cape Province of South Africa, and compares the proportion or "cohort-prevalences" of CHD-subtypes with international findings. Methods: PROTEA is a prospective multicenter CHD registry and biorepository. The initial cohort was recruited from seven hospitals in the Western Cape Province of South Africa from 1 April 2017 to 31 March 2019. All patients with structural CHD were eligible for inclusion. Descriptive data for the preliminary cohort are presented. In addition, cohort-prevalences (i.e., the proportion of patients within the cohort with a specific CHD-subtype) of 26 CHD-subtypes in PROTEA's pediatric cohort were compared with the cohort-prevalences of CHD-subtypes in two global birth-prevalence studies. Results: The study enrolled 1,473 participants over 2 years, median age was 1.9 (IQR 0.4-7.1) years. Predominant subtypes included ventricular septal defect (VSD) (339, 20%), atrial septal defect (ASD) (174, 11%), patent ductus arteriosus (185, 11%), atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) (124, 7%), and tetralogy of Fallot (121, 7%). VSDs were 1.8 (95% CI, 1.6-2.0) times and ASDs 1.4 (95% CI, 1.2-1.6) times more common in global prevalence estimates than in PROTEA's pediatric cohort. AVSDs were 2.1 (95% CI, 1.7-2.5) times more common in PROTEA and pulmonary stenosis and double outlet right ventricle were also significantly more common compared to global estimates. Median maternal age at delivery was 28 (IQR 23-34) years. Eighty-two percent (347/425) of mothers used no pre-conception supplementation and 42% (105/250) used no first trimester supplements. Conclusions: The cohort-prevalence of certain mild CHD subtypes is lower than for international estimates and the cohort-prevalence of certain severe subtypes is higher. PROTEA is not a prevalence study, and these inconsistencies are unlikely the result of true differences in prevalence. However, these findings may indicate under-diagnosis of mild to moderate CHD and differences in CHD management and outcomes. This reemphasizes the need for robust CHD epidemiological research in the region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Aldersley
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John Lawrenson
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Paul Human
- Chris Barnard Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur and Red Cross Children's Hospitals, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Gasnat Shaboodien
- Department of Medicine, Cape Heart Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Blanche Cupido
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - George Comitis
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rik De Decker
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Barend Fourie
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Stellenbosch, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lenise Swanson
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alexia Joachim
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Phaphama Magadla
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Malebogo Ngoepe
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Liam Swanson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Alistair Revell
- Department of Mechanical, Aerospace and Civil Engineering, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Raj Ramesar
- Division of Human Genetics, Department of Pathology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Andre Brooks
- Chris Barnard Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur and Red Cross Children's Hospitals, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Nicole Saacks
- Department of Medicine, Cape Heart Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bianca De Koning
- Department of Medicine, Cape Heart Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Karen Sliwa
- Department of Medicine, Cape Heart Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - John Anthony
- Division of Maternal and Foetal Medicine, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ayesha Osman
- Division of Maternal and Foetal Medicine, The Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Bernard Keavney
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Liesl Zühlke
- Division of Paediatric Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Aliku T, Beaton A, Lubega S, Dewyer A, Scheel A, Kamarembo J, Akech R, Sable C, Lwabi P. Profile of congenital heart disease and access to definitive care among children seen at Gulu Regional Referral Hospital in Northern Uganda: a four-year experience. JOURNAL OF CONGENITAL CARDIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1186/s40949-021-00064-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Objectives
The aim of this study was to describe the profile of Congenital Heart Disease [CHD] and access to definitive surgical or catheter-based care among children attending a regional referral hospital in Northern Uganda.
Methods
This was a retrospective chart review of all children aged less than 17 years attending Gulu Regional Referral Hospital Cardiac clinic from November 2013 to July 2017.
Results
A total of 295 children were diagnosed with CHD during the study period. The median age at initial diagnosis was 12 months [IQR: 4–48]. Females comprised 59.3% [n = 175] of cases. Diagnosis in the neonatal period accounted for only 7.5 % [n = 22] of cases. The commonest CHD seen was ventricular septal defect [VSD] in 19.7 % [n = 58] of cases, followed by atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD) in 17.3 % [n = 51] and patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in 15.9 % [n = 47]. The commonest cyanotic CHD seen was tetralogy of Fallot [TOF] in 5.1 % [n = 15], followed by double outlet right ventricle [DORV] in 4.1 % [n = 12] and truncus arteriosus in 3.4% [n = 10]. Dextro-transposition of the great arteries [D-TGA] was seen in 1.3 % [n = 4]. At initial evaluation, 76 % [n = 224] of all CHD cases needed definitive intervention and 14 % of these children [n = 32] had accessed surgical or catheter-based therapy within 2 years of diagnosis. Three quarters of the cases who had intervention [n = 24] had definitive care at the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), including all 12 cases who underwent catheter-based interventions. No mortalities were reported in the immediate post-operative period and in the first annual follow up in all cases who had intervention.
Conclusions
There is delayed diagnosis of most rural Ugandan Children with CHD and access to definitive care is severely limited. The commonest CHD seen was VSD followed by AVSD. The majority of patients who had definitive surgery or transcatheter intervention received care in Uganda.
Collapse
|
11
|
Zikarg YT, Yirdaw CT, Aragie TG. Prevalence of congenital septal defects among congenital heart defect patients in East Africa: A systematic review and meta-analysis. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0250006. [PMID: 33886628 PMCID: PMC8062078 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0250006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common congenital defects and accounts for nearly one-third of all major congenital anomalies. It is the leading causes of birth defect-associated morbidity, mortality, and medical expenditures. Of all CHD types, ventricular septal defect (VSD) and atrial septal defect (ASD) accounted 51% of cases with an increasing trend over time. Objective The aim of this review is to estimate the pooled prevalence of ventricular septal defect and congenital atrial septal defect among congenital heart diseases patients in East African context. Methods Using PRISMA guideline, we systematically reviewed and meta-analyzed studies that examined the prevalence of Ventricular septal defect and atrial septal defect in East Africa, from Medline (PubMed), Cochrane Library, HINARI, and Google Scholar. A weighted inverse variance random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of ventricular septal defect and atrial septal defect. Results A total of 2323 studies were identified; 1301 from PubMed, 12 from Cochrane Library, 1010 from Google Scholar and 22 from other sources. The pooled prevalence of ventricular septal defect and atrial septal defect in East Africa was found to be 29.92% (95% CI; 26.12–33.72; I2 = 89.2%; p<0.001), and 10.36% (95% CI; 8.05–12.68; I2 = 89.5%; p<0.001) respectively. Conclusions and future implications Based on this review, the pooled prevalence of VSD and ASD is still high and alarming; this signifies that the emphasis given for congenital heart defect in East African countries is limited. Special attention and efforts should be applied for early detection to prevent serious complications and for a better prognosis of all forms of CHD. A screening program for CHD should be instituted during the perinatal period. Furthermore, early referral of suspected cases of congenital cardiac anomalies is mandatory for better management till the establishment of cardiac centers in different regions of the continent.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yossef Teshome Zikarg
- College of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, Department of Anatomy, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Obongonyinge B, Namuyonga J, Tumwebaze H, Aliku T, Lwabi P, Lubega S. Congenitally corrected transposition of great arteries: a case series of five unoperated African children. JOURNAL OF CONGENITAL CARDIOLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.1186/s40949-020-00038-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Congenitally corrected transposition of great arteries (ccTGA) is rare. It is commonly associated with ventricular septal defect (VSD), pulmonary stenosis and heart block. Early anatomic repair is recommended between 3 and 6 months of age to prevent development of tricuspid valve regurgitation and systemic right ventricular failure.
Case presentation
We retrospectively identified five cases of ccTGA. Cases were between one and 13 years of age. All the cases were unoperated. Four of the five cases had associated intracardiac defects/complications. These included: VSD, pulmonary stenosis, tricuspid valve regurgitation, right ventricular systolic dysfunction and heart block.
Conclusion
These cases demonstrate the challenges of access to early diagnosis and surgery in a low resource setting. This delay in anatomic repair leads to complications of tricuspid valve regurgitation and systemic right ventricular failure.
Collapse
|