Neurocognitive development and behavioral outcome of 2-year-old children with univentricular heart

Riina Puosi1, Marit Korkman, Anne Sarajuuri

  • 1Division of Child Neurology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Helsinki, Finland. riina.puosi@hus.fi

Insights

Children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) show developmental delays and behavioral issues. Early screening and intervention are crucial for these children with univentricular heart (UVH) conditions.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Neurodevelopmental Pediatrics
  • Congenital Heart Disease

Background:

  • Improved survival rates for severe congenital heart defects like hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and other forms of univentricular heart (UVH) have been observed.
  • Children with these conditions face increased risks of neurodevelopmental deficits.
  • Understanding these risks is crucial for timely intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess cognitive development, expressive language, and behavior in 30-month-old children with univentricular heart.
  • To compare neurodevelopmental outcomes between children with HLHS, other UVH conditions, and healthy controls.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized Bayley Scales of Infant Development II, MacArthur Communicative Development Inventories, and Child Behavior Checklist.
  • Assessed 22 children with HLHS, 14 with UVH, and 41 healthy controls at 30 months of age.

Main Results:

  • Children with HLHS demonstrated significantly lower mental development index, delayed expressive language, and more behavioral problems compared to controls.
  • Children with UVH also showed a lower mean mental development index than controls.
  • 9% of children with HLHS exhibited significantly delayed cognitive performance (mental development index < 50).

Conclusions:

  • Neurodevelopmental deficits are particularly prevalent in children with HLHS at 30 months of age.
  • Children with UVH also experience neurodevelopmental challenges.
  • Recommends early developmental screening, intervention, and neuropsychological follow-up, especially for HLHS patients.

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