Cardiol Young [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
The impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on neonatal cardiac development.
Qi L, Yuan L, Jiang J
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 42021455 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on neonatal cardiac development. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of full-term newborns admitted in 2024 was conducted. 100 newborns o...
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on neonatal cardiac development. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of full-term newborns admitted in 2024 was conducted. 100 newborns of mothers with GDM (IADPSG criteria) were the GDM group, and 100 of non-GDM mothers were the control group. We compared their birth parameters,echocardiographic indicators and congenital heart disease (CHD) incidence, and analyzed factors related to neonatal interventricular septal (IVS) hypertrophy. RESULTS: The GDM group had significantly higher birth weight, length and placental weight ( < 0.05); echocardiography showed larger cardiac chambers, great vessels and thicker IVS ( > 0.05); CHD incidence was 2% (vs. 0% in control, = 0.047). Maternal glycemic indicators and neonatal birth weight were positively correlated with IVS thickness ( < 0.05). CONCLUSION: GDM adversely affects neonatal cardiac development; routine fetal and postnatal cardiac evaluation is necessary for GDM pregnancies. Further research is needed to clarify mechanisms and establish monitoring strategies.
Safety and feasibility of deep sedation and general anaesthesia for cardiovascular MRI studies in paediatric patients from two tertiary European centres.
Krupickova S, Lane M, Schmidt M … +10 more , Rancati J, Mohiaddin R, Izgi C, Shah J, Rigby M, Daubeney P, Uebing A, Gabbert D, Pennell DJ, Voges I
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 42021453 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and feasibility of deep sedation and general anaesthesia for cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in paediatric patients with congenital or acquired cardiac diseases. METHODS: This...
PURPOSE: To investigate the safety and feasibility of deep sedation and general anaesthesia for cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging in paediatric patients with congenital or acquired cardiac diseases. METHODS: This retrospective study included all consecutive patients less than 18 years of age who had deep sedation for cardiovascular magnetic resonance examination at the University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein (Kiel, Germany) between 2010 and 2020 and cardiovascular magnetic resonance examination under general anaesthesia at the Royal Brompton Hospital (London, United Kingdom) between 2013 and 2022. RESULTS: Five-hundred twenty-two patients were in the deep sedation group and 171 in general anaesthesia group. Most of the patients had CHD (86% in deep sedation and 70% in general anaesthesia group). There were overall 14 adverse events (2%); 8 (1.5%) in the deep sedation group and 6 (3.5%) in the general anaesthesia group. This difference was not statistically significant ( = 0.122). Complications in the deep sedation group included mild anaphylactic reactions in three patients, a severe coughing fit in one patient, increasing cyanosis in three single-ventricle patients, and suspected aspiration in one patient. In the general anaesthesia group, hypotension requiring some intervention was present in three patients (four scans). One patient (0.6%) had inadvertent endobronchial intubation. CONCLUSION: Both deep sedation and general anaesthesia can be used for cardiovascular magnetic resonance scans in paediatric patients with a low rate of complications. This, however, requires highly skilled teams who adhere strongly to the safety policies and guidelines set up by each hospital.
Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse: prevalence, characteristics, and high-risk features in children and adolescents.
Lenarczyk A, Tyc F, Lenarczyk R … +3 more , Tomasiczek-Santana E, Grochowina-Major A, Fiszer R
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 42011124 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse is a rare yet potentially fatal syndrome. Recently, high-risk markers for malignant arrhythmias have been identified in adults with mitral valve prolapse, and a risk stratif...
INTRODUCTION: Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse is a rare yet potentially fatal syndrome. Recently, high-risk markers for malignant arrhythmias have been identified in adults with mitral valve prolapse, and a risk stratification scheme has been proposed. Little is known about the prevalence of arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse, the characteristics of the syndrome, and risk markers in children and young adults. METHODS: A database of a high-volume, tertiary congenital heart defects department was searched to identify all patients with MVP between 2018 and 2025 (8 years). Patients' characteristics, including arrhythmic risk factors, AMVP diagnosis, and last survival, were noted. RESULTS: Of 12,955 hospitalised patients, 52 were diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse (0.4%; median age 14y [IQR 6], 35% male). Arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse was diagnosed in 13 patients (25% of the mitral valve prolapse cohort). Phenotypic risk factors were highly prevalent (88.5%), but in the crosstab analysis, only an enlarged left atrium was associated with high-risk arrhythmic events (p = 0.0432). Furthermore, patients with arrhythmic events were significantly older (median 16y) than those without (median 13y; p = 0.019). One patient (2.7%, with concomitant LQTS2) presented with unstable ventricular tachycardia and received an ICD. During a median follow-up of 3 years (IQR 1-4.5), all 52 patients were alive. CONCLUSIONS: One in 250 patients admitted to a tertiary invasive paediatric cardiology department has mitral valve prolapse. Among those with mitral valve prolapse, 1 in 4 presents with arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse. Although risk factors are common, outcomes among young arrhythmic mitral valve prolapse patients appear good. Overlapping with primary electrical disease may flag a worse prognosis. Identification of new risk factors for children is warranted.
Two novel ryanodine receptor 2 mutations associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in children: two case reports and literature review.
Zou R, Wang S, Liu P … +5 more , Cai H, Liu L, Li F, Wang Y, Wang C
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41987505 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: The ryanodine receptor 2 gene mutation associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia is one of the aetiologies of cardiac syncope and has the risk of sudden cardiac death. This study...
INTRODUCTION: The ryanodine receptor 2 gene mutation associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia is one of the aetiologies of cardiac syncope and has the risk of sudden cardiac death. This study reported two novel ryanodine receptor 2 gene variants. CASE DESCRIPTION: We described two 9-year-old girls with recurrent syncope during exercise or stress presenting two novel ryanodine receptor 2 gene variants (c.6938T>G/p. Val2313Gly and c.12263A>C/p. His4088Pro) associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia through a comprehensive review of medical history, examination findings and genetic testing. Propranolol was used for treatment, and the two patients didn't experience episodes of syncope during follow-up for 6 months. Besides, literature associated with catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and ryanodine receptor 2 mutations was reviewed. CONCLUSIONS: Recurrent syncope during exertion or stress should be focused on catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia caused by ryanodine receptor 2 gene mutations. The genetic testing is a crucial tool in confirming the mutation of catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia. Early recognition of this disease, timely diagnosis of ryanodine receptor 2 gene mutations, and administration of appropriate pharmacological agents or ICD implantation are critical to ensure favourable clinical outcomes.
A case of endocardial mapping for the epicardial pure origin of premature ventricular complex using the time difference between bipolar and unipolar potential.
Izumi G, Sasaki D, Yamazawa H
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41979197 · Publisher ↗
In endocardial mapping of premature ventricular complexes of intramural or epicardial origin, we must be aware that pure origin and exit do not always coincide. In this study, we describe a case of endocardial mapping fo...
In endocardial mapping of premature ventricular complexes of intramural or epicardial origin, we must be aware that pure origin and exit do not always coincide. In this study, we describe a case of endocardial mapping for epicardial-side premature ventricular complexes of pure origin using the time difference between bipolar and unipolar potentials.
Four-year cardiac geometry, blood pressure, and immune profiles after multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children.
Ekemen Keleş Y, Özdemir Şimşek Ö, Sevinç Y … +3 more , Karadaş U, Çil Z, Yılmaz D
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41978965 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: To evaluate left ventricular geometry, haemodynamic load, and inflammatory markers with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. METHODS: This retrospective study included paediatric patients with a pri...
BACKGROUND: To evaluate left ventricular geometry, haemodynamic load, and inflammatory markers with multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children. METHODS: This retrospective study included paediatric patients with a prior diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children who underwent follow-up echocardiography, ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and laboratory assessments. RESULTS: Thirty patients (mean age 12.9 ± 5.0 years; 18 boys) were evaluated, including eight (26.7%) who had required an ICU stay during the acute phase. The median interval since the diagnosis of multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children was 48 months (interquartile range 47-50). Body mass index was positively correlated with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter ( = 0.577, = 0.001), left ventricular end-systolic diameter ( = 0.522, = 0.002), interventricular septal thickness ( = 0.565, = 0.001), posterior wall thickness ( = 0.610, < 0.001), and left ventricular mass ( = 0.594, = 0.001). Body mass index z-score correlated with interleukin-6 ( = 0.415, = 0.023), while lymphocyte count correlated inversely with left ventricular end-diastolic diameter ( = -0.559, = 0.001) and left ventricular mass ( = -0.631, < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified lymphocyte count as the only independent predictor of left ventricular end-diastolic diameter [β = -0.492, 95% confidence interval = -0.589 to -0.078, = 0.013]. CONCLUSIONS: Four years after multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children, ventricular enlargement appears to reflect physiological scaling rather than persistent hypertrophy, supporting the need for continued long-term surveillance in this population.
A prospective randomised evaluation of voltage propagation vs anatomical atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia mapping in paediatric patients.
Von Bergen NH, Zhang X, Kilinc OU … +3 more , Kean AC, Johnsrude C, Law IH
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41978963 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: There is currently no consensus on the optimal mapping technique for atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia ablation. OBJECTIVE: This, the first of its kind, prospective randomised trial compared procedu...
BACKGROUND: There is currently no consensus on the optimal mapping technique for atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia ablation. OBJECTIVE: This, the first of its kind, prospective randomised trial compared procedural characteristics and ablation outcomes between an anatomic approach for atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia ablation and an approach guided by low voltage signals, local activation time, and the propagation wave collision. METHODS: A randomised, prospective, multi-centre clinical trial was performed at 5 paediatric cardiac centres. 3D mapping was used on all patients. After atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia confirmation, patients were randomly assigned to either an anatomic-based approach or to a 3D mapping technique that assessed for low voltage, activation time, and propagation wave collision to select the initial ablation site. Patient and procedural characteristics were collected with up to a 2-year post-procedure follow-up. RESULTS: In all, 70 patients were randomised: 37 within the voltage-propagation wave approach and 33 in the anatomic approach group. There was no significant difference between patient demographics or follow-up duration between groups. No significant difference was seen between duration of procedure, success rate, complications, or recurrences between techniques. There was a trend toward fewer ablation applications to initial success with the voltage-propagation technique (median of 2 vs 5). Conversely, there were significantly more total lesions placed for the voltage-propagation group. Typical atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia trended towards fewer lesions to success and fewer recurrences than ablations for atypical atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia or jump/echo. CONCLUSION: Both techniques demonstrated an excellent acute success rate and a low recurrence rate. Voltage-propagation mapping trended toward fewer ablations to initial success and did not prolong the procedure time. This paediatric study suggests that both a traditional anatomical technique and a voltage-propagation technique can provide excellent clinical outcomes, especially for typical atrioventricular nodal re-entry tachycardia.
Deglutition syncope to gastronomic satiety: a paediatric case report and update on therapeutic options.
Hebson C, Wolff D, Kane A … +1 more , Maddox W
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41969230 · Publisher ↗
We describe a rare and severe presentation of deglutition syncope, manifesting as complete heart block, along with newer therapeutic options, including cardioneural ablation and leadless pacing. Our 15-year-old patient p...
We describe a rare and severe presentation of deglutition syncope, manifesting as complete heart block, along with newer therapeutic options, including cardioneural ablation and leadless pacing. Our 15-year-old patient presented with frequent syncope with swallowing, along with symptoms of orthostatic intolerance and anxiety. When standard non-pharmacologic and pharmacologic treatments were insufficient, cardioneural ablation resulted in improvement in syncope. Subsequent standard treatment of orthostatic intolerance has significantly improved the quality of life, including allowing her a more normal diet. The option of leadless pacing to prevent bradycardia during episodes of induced heart block has not yet been enacted due to her clinical improvement.
Prospective observational study comparing the outcomes of fenestrated and non-fenestrated extracardiac Fontan procedure.
Das D, Sarkar T, Das S … +4 more , Malladi V, Sharma MK, Gajpal S, Chattopadhyay A
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41969224 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Fenestration in the Fontan procedure was introduced to improve early postoperative outcomes by reducing systemic venous pressure and augmenting preload to the systemic ventricle. It is believed to decrease pl...
BACKGROUND: Fenestration in the Fontan procedure was introduced to improve early postoperative outcomes by reducing systemic venous pressure and augmenting preload to the systemic ventricle. It is believed to decrease pleural drainage, shorten hospital stay, and reduce complications. However, fenestration may result in systemic desaturation and carries a potential risk of paradoxical thromboembolism. The benefits of routine fenestration remain controversial. This study aimed to evaluate whether adding a fenestration influences early postoperative outcomes. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Between March 2024 and November 2025, 52 patients underwent Fontan completion at our institution. Forty patients met the inclusion criteria and were prospectively divided into two equal groups: non-fenestrated (Group 1, = 20) and fenestrated (Group 2, = 20). Twelve patients were excluded due to a primary Fontan procedure, elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, increased transpulmonary gradient, or significant branch pulmonary artery distortion. Demographic and perioperative parameters, including ventilation duration, inotrope duration, chest drain duration and volume, ICU stay, and total hospital stay, were analysed. RESULTS: Baseline demographic and intraoperative variables were comparable between groups. Duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU stay, total chest drainage, and cardiopulmonary bypass time were similar. Chest drain duration was shorter in the fenestrated group (8.1 ± 4.2 vs. 10.2 ± 5.3 days), but this difference was not statistically significant ( = 0.173). Discharge oxygen saturation was significantly lower in the fenestrated group (88.9 ± 5.6% vs. 93.3 ± 3.5%; = 0.0072). CONCLUSION: In the present cohort, fenestration was not associated with a statistically significant improvement in most early perioperative outcomes. Larger studies are needed to define its role.
"Hope is so fragile": parent perspectives on the care of children with single-ventricle heart disease.
Kelly SL, Kelling EM, Zaki K … +7 more , Wolfe KR, Younoszai A, Brigham D, Jacobsen RM, Hawkins S, Di Maria MV, Darst JR
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41969213 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Children born with single-ventricle heart disease face a myriad of medical comorbidities, psychological risks, and quality of life challenges as they age. Parent perspectives on their care from diagnosis th...
INTRODUCTION: Children born with single-ventricle heart disease face a myriad of medical comorbidities, psychological risks, and quality of life challenges as they age. Parent perspectives on their care from diagnosis through development are critical to understand best ways and times to intervene to promote child and family adjustment to illness. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Parents of children with status post-Fontan procedure were recruited to complete an electronic qualitative survey exploring parent perspectives of care. Grounded theory was utilised to analyse the data and identify themes and subthemes. RESULTS: Twenty-four parents completed the survey, describing their experience from diagnosis through the early years of treatment and into childhood and adolescence. Seven core themes were identified: survival and hope, parent stress and support, early stress and development, quality of life, increased independence, connection to the team, and communication. Initially, parents shared early worry regarding survival as they learned more about the condition and underwent surgeries. Later, parents supported their child's development and balanced ongoing hypervigilance with promotion of normalcy in their child's life. Quality of life and behavioural health concerns emerged amongst other medical comorbidities, and parents emphasised the need for both child and parent support in navigating family life with this illness. DISCUSSION: Parent perspectives highlighted the importance of family-centred, multidisciplinary care models that integrate medical subspeciality and psychosocial services for holistic care of children born with single-ventricle heart disease. Implications for care across development and interventions for children and parents are discussed.
Could N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide predict cardiac involvement in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy as detected by real-time three-dimensional (four-dimensional) and speckle-tracking echocardiography?
Kaynak E, Eroğlu AG, Sayılı U … +3 more , Kurukaya SS, Yüksel Karatoprak E, Saltık S
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41958305 · Publisher ↗
AIM: Cardiac complications significantly contribute to mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Early detection of cardiac involvement is crucial for optimising therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to ev...
AIM: Cardiac complications significantly contribute to mortality in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. Early detection of cardiac involvement is crucial for optimising therapeutic interventions. This study aimed to evaluate the role of -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide in detecting cardiac involvement, as assessed by real-time three-dimensional (four-dimensional) and three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This cross-sectional study enrolled individuals under 21 years. Participants underwent clinical evaluation, real-time three-dimensional echocardiography, three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography, and simultaneous measurement of serum -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels. Correlation analysis between echocardiographic parameters and -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide was performed. RESULTS: The study comprised 38 Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients with a mean age of 9.40 ± 4.13 years. Moderate significant correlations were observed between -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide and echocardiographic parameters, including basal anterolateral and inferolateral longitudinal strain, apical septal longitudinal strain, and basal anterolateral and inferolateral radial strain ( < 0.05). Subgroup analysis based on -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (<125 pg/ml vs. ≥125 pg/ml) revealed impaired basal anterolateral longitudinal strain in patients with high -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide. CONCLUSION: This is the first study that includes -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide in conjunction with real-time three-dimensional echocardiography and three-dimensional speckle-tracking echocardiography for assessing cardiac involvement in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients. The observed correlations between -terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide levels and regional contraction parameters hold promise for its relevance as a biomarker for cardiac dysfunction. Prospective studies with a larger population with a broader range of disease severity are necessary in patients with Duchenne muscular dystrophy.
Obesity prevalence and risk factors in surgically repaired CHD.
Ammerman E, Huang A, Holmes KW … +1 more , Huang JH
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41958292 · Publisher ↗
Children with CHD have demonstrated a rise in obesity, and have unique risks related to comorbidities of obesity, including feeding dysfunction and exercise limitations. The incidence and cause of obesity among patients...
Children with CHD have demonstrated a rise in obesity, and have unique risks related to comorbidities of obesity, including feeding dysfunction and exercise limitations. The incidence and cause of obesity among patients with surgically corrected CHD are not fully understood. This single-centre, longitudinal, retrospective cohort study identified patients between 2004 and 2020 with surgical correction. Diagnoses were restricted to d-transposition of the great arteries, coarctation of the aorta, or tetralogy of Fallot with surgical repair by 6 months of life without long-term post-operative complications or chromosomal abnormalities. Evaluation of Body Mass Index by survival curve for endpoints of overweight and obesity, as well as descriptive analysis of the population, was performed compared to the expected prevalence in the state of Oregon (13.7%). Cohorts were divided into eras in 5-year increments. Of 240 patients identified, 87 (36.2%) were overweight and 50 (20.8%) obese, findings significantly higher than expected prevalence ( = <0.01) for the same time period in the state of Oregon. Patients with coarctation of the aorta had a higher prevalence than other diagnoses ( = <0.01). Patients in the 2004-2008 cohort had the highest rates of obesity compared to other cohorts ( = <0.01 and = <0.01, respectively), likely due to a longer observational period. However, the 2014-17 cohort had the highest rate of increase in hazard ratio. Children with surgically corrected CHD demonstrate higher prevalences of obesity compared to the general population. There is variation by diagnosis, with coarctation of the aorta having comparatively higher prevalences of obesity. Several factors may impact this discrepancy, including sports participation restrictions and initial emphasis on weight gain.
The road to innovation: Collaborative enhancement of clinical prediction-A 9th World Congress of Pediatric Cardiology and Cardiac Surgery closing plenary lecture.
Kutty S
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41944643 · Publisher ↗
Innovation in paediatric and adult congenital cardiology increasingly depends on collaboration among academia, industry, and professional communities. From this perspective, the author argues that clinical prediction rep...
Innovation in paediatric and adult congenital cardiology increasingly depends on collaboration among academia, industry, and professional communities. From this perspective, the author argues that clinical prediction represents a natural convergence point for these stakeholders, aligning safe, personalised care with economic incentives. The author discusses emerging evidence highlighting the promise of artificial intelligence-driven prediction across various cardiovascular domains, while highlighting current limitations related to narrow scope, static design, and weak integration into clinical decision-making. Medicine-based evidence and a high-quality, inclusive data infrastructure may help address these gaps. Together, these approaches, along with stakeholders upholding their responsibilities, define a path towards predictive innovation.
Severe pulmonary hypertension as a diagnostic challenge: a case of congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries with dextrocardia in an elderly patient.
Novak M, Kacar P, Poropat Flerin T … +1 more , Prokselj K
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41944177 · Publisher ↗
Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries is a rare congenital heart defect that may remain undiagnosed well into adulthood. We present the case of a 71-year-old male with dextrocardia and exertional dys...
Congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries is a rare congenital heart defect that may remain undiagnosed well into adulthood. We present the case of a 71-year-old male with dextrocardia and exertional dyspnoea, initially diagnosed with severe pulmonary hypertension. Further evaluation revealed an underlying congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries. This case highlights the importance of considering CHD in older adults with unusual cardiac findings.
The state of the unit: variable care models in paediatric acute care cardiology units documented by the fourth iteration of the Paediatric Acute Care Cardiology Collaborative (PAC) Hospital Survey.
Rodts ME, DelGrippo E, Figueroa M … +7 more , Gal DB, Harahsheh AS, Hart SA, Plummer S, Tanel R, Ware AL, Kipps AK
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41943873 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Pediatric acute care cardiology is a distinct subspecialty field within paediatric cardiology that has grown rapidly in recognition, with previously documented heterogeneity in its practice across 31 centres...
BACKGROUND: Pediatric acute care cardiology is a distinct subspecialty field within paediatric cardiology that has grown rapidly in recognition, with previously documented heterogeneity in its practice across 31 centres surveyed in 2017. Unit composition and care delivery across centres participating in the Paediatric Acute Care Cardiology Collaborative (PAC) have not been formally reassessed and shared, despite significant growth in the field. METHODS: A 214-stem question Hospital Survey was created with 454 total response fields across eight domains important to paediatric acute care cardiology such a demographics, staffing, resources and therapies, and standard practices. PAC centres were surveyed in September 2023 via REDCap. Descriptive statistics were performed. RESULTS: Surveys were completed by 100% (47/47) of PAC centers. Diverse unit composition exists with 37% of centres utilising a single, dedicated acute care cardiology unit, 28% using mixed-specialty acute care units, and 19% using acuity adaptable units, housing critical and acute care patients in one physical space. Since 2017, acute care cardiology-dedicated multidisciplinary staff has increased (physical therapy (PT): 0 to 4; occupational therapy (OT): 1 to 5; speech-language pathology (SLP): 0 to 4; PharmD: 7 to 26). There is heterogeneity in utilisation of many of the resources and therapies used in acute care cardiology, and use of ventricular assist devices on the acute care cardiology unit has increased. CONCLUSION: Significant variability exists in unit structure and care delivery models across a diverse group of centres providing acute care cardiology services. The Hospital Survey may assist in identifying best practices for similar centres across PAC.
The inferior vena cava collapsibility index as a non-invasive marker of early haemodynamic changes following atrial septal defect closure.
Aktas R, Narin N, Tasci O … +5 more , Oksuz S, Atlan MA, Yildiz K, Er M, Karadeniz C
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940521 · Publisher ↗
INTRODUCTION: Atrial septal defect is a common CHD, and transcatheter closure is now the gold standard treatment. In an atrial septal defect, left-to-right shunting increases pulmonary blood flow. This study aimed to eva...
INTRODUCTION: Atrial septal defect is a common CHD, and transcatheter closure is now the gold standard treatment. In an atrial septal defect, left-to-right shunting increases pulmonary blood flow. This study aimed to evaluate early changes in pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein, and inferior vena cava flow parameters following transcatheter closure of an atrial septal defect. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This retrospective study included 31 paediatric patients with haemodynamically significant atrial septal defect (Qp/Qs ≥ 1.5) who underwent transcatheter closure between January 2023 and June 2024. Comprehensive echocardiography was performed 24 hours before and after the procedure. Pulmonary artery and pulmonary vein maximum and mean pressure gradients, velocities, velocity-time integrals, inferior vena cava maximum and minimum diameters, and the inferior vena cava collapsibility index were analysed at both time points using standard transthoracic echocardiographic techniques. RESULTS: When the data obtained were evaluated, it was observed that pulmonary artery maximum-mean pressure gradient ( < 0.001), pulmonary artery maximum-mean velocity ( < 0.001), pulmonary artery velocity-time integral ( < 0.001), pulmonary vein maximum pressure gradient ( < 0.001), pulmonary vein mean pressure gradient ( < 0.05), inferior vena cava maximum and minimum diameters ( < 0.001) and inferior vena cava collapsibility index ( < 0.05) decreased statistically significantly after transcatheter closure compared to before. CONCLUSION: The duration of remodelling in both the right and left atrial structures following transcatheter atrial septal defect closure depends on the extent of early changes in flow parameters. Our findings suggest that the inferior vena cava collapsibility index may serve as a simple, non-invasive indicator for closure criteria in future studies.
Physical therapy enhances patient care in post-congenital heart surgery clinic.
Barr SM, Modi H, Krauklis K … +5 more , Morton L, Fraser CD, Mery CM, Well A, Taylor MD
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940519 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: Following paediatric and congenital heart surgery, recognition of rehabilitation needs is variable. This study aims to identify rehabilitation needs and gaps in care for patients in a post-operative congenital...
OBJECTIVE: Following paediatric and congenital heart surgery, recognition of rehabilitation needs is variable. This study aims to identify rehabilitation needs and gaps in care for patients in a post-operative congenital heart clinic. METHODS: Retrospective review of all patients following congenital heart surgery requiring sternotomy attending their first post-operative clinic appointment between 1/21/2022 and 8/18/2023. Physical therapy evaluation included assessment of posture, mobility, and pain. Patient demographics and clinical data were reviewed. Descriptive and univariate statistics were applied. RESULTS: Two hundred seventeen patients were identified: 88 (40%) infants (<12 months), 34 (16%) toddlers (1-3 years), 43 (20%) school aged children (4-12 years), and 52 (24%) teens/adults (13+ years). Twenty-one (10%) demonstrated no additional physical therapy needs. Eighty-two (28%) needed clarification of sternal precautions. Teens and adults had significantly higher incidence of impaired posture, difficulty sleeping, and pain. Seventy (32%) patients were referred to physical therapy at time of discharge. Among the 147 not referred, 89 (60%) were identified as needing outpatient physical therapy. Physical therapy assessment discovered previously undiagnosed developmental delay in 9 (4%) patients. CONCLUSIONS: Significant physical therapy needs were identified in a congenital heart post-operative clinic, including needs not identified while inpatient. Integrating physical therapy in clinic improves timely access to rehabilitation care in the subacute phase of recovery.
Stress, coping, protective factors, and quality of life in parents of infants with CHD: associations with state anxiety.
Bainton J, Trachtenberg FL, Freemon D … +14 more , Fremed MA, Klingman E, Lambert LM, McCrary AW, McCrindle BW, Rathge K, Sadhwani A, Segar DE, Shustak RJ, Sood E, Uzark K, Votava-Smith JK, Woodard Kline F, Mussatto KA
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940517 · Full text
INTRODUCTION: The Family Adaptation study, ancillary to the Single Ventricle Reconstruction Trial, examined the prevalence of anxiety and its associations with stress, psychosocial factors, and quality of life measures i...
INTRODUCTION: The Family Adaptation study, ancillary to the Single Ventricle Reconstruction Trial, examined the prevalence of anxiety and its associations with stress, psychosocial factors, and quality of life measures in parents of infants who underwent the Norwood procedure. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Two hundred and fifteen parents (143 mothers and 72 fathers) of 146 infants completed state anxiety (State Anxiety Inventory), stress, psychosocial, and quality of life measures post-Norwood, post-Stage II, and at a final visit (median child age: 14 months). RESULTS: A substantial proportion of parents reported severe anxiety symptoms following the Norwood surgery, with 61% of mothers and 43% of fathers affected, decreasing over time to 46% and 33% by the final visit, respectively. Mothers' average STAI-S scores were significantly higher than fathers' post-Norwood (47.7 ± 13.2 versus 43.5 ± 11.8, = 0.03), declining to 42.1 ± 13.0 versus 39.0 ± 9.6 ( = 0.14) at the final visit. Stress related to parenting a child with a serious illness was a stronger and more consistent predictor of mothers' anxiety over time (highest = 0.49 for emotional distress), whereas insufficient coping and fewer protective factors were greater and more consistent predictors for fathers (highest = 0.40 for mastery and health). Quality of life was a consistent predictor of state anxiety for both mothers and fathers. CONCLUSION: Anxiety is elevated in parents of infants who underwent the Norwood procedure and is influenced by a complex interplay of stress, psychosocial factors, and quality of life. Addressing these factors is crucial for improving parents' mental health, which in turn promotes the well-being of the entire family.
Leadless pacing in pre-adolescent patients weighing 30kg or less: case report and systematic review.
Kojodjojo P, Chow J
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940515 · Publisher ↗
Transvenous and epicardial pacing in children carries significant risks of lead failure and infection. Leadless pacing is an alternative with lower risks of infection, lead failure, and longer battery longevity. A retrie...
Transvenous and epicardial pacing in children carries significant risks of lead failure and infection. Leadless pacing is an alternative with lower risks of infection, lead failure, and longer battery longevity. A retrievable leadless pacemaker was implanted in an 8-year-old, 24 kg patient with heart block. A systematic review evaluated procedural success and the safety of leadless pacemakers in preadolescents weighing less than 30 kg.
Favourable outcome of a neonate with vein of Galen malformation with concurrent right superior vena cava draining into the left atrium.
Alhayek N, Cave A, Mir A
Cardiol Young · 2026 Apr · PMID 41940514 · Publisher ↗
We present a neonate with a large vein of Galen malformation and an unusual drainage of the large vein returning blood from the upper half of the body into the right atrium (superior vena cava) into the left atrium. Rema...
We present a neonate with a large vein of Galen malformation and an unusual drainage of the large vein returning blood from the upper half of the body into the right atrium (superior vena cava) into the left atrium. Remarkably, the infant showed no signs of cyanosis, heart failure, or pulmonary hypertension. We suggest this rare anomaly may have provided in-utero protection by offloading blood flow and reducing strain on the fetal heart and lungs.
About
- Frequency
- Sun
- Papers found
- 200
- RSS feed
- Subscribe