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The prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder following neonatal aortic arch repair

Joseph J Sistino1, Andrew M Atz2, Kit N Simpson1

  • 11Medical University of South Carolina,College of Health Professions,Charleston,United States of America.

Cardiology in the Young
|April 30, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Children who had neonatal heart surgery have a high risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This study found a significant ADHD prevalence and low treatment rates, impacting quality of life in these young patients.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Neurodevelopmental Disorders
  • Child Psychology

Background:

  • Neonatal heart surgery, particularly aortic arch repairs, can impact neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder in children.
  • Previous research suggests a potential link between congenital heart disease and ADHD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To determine the prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children post-neonatal heart surgery involving aortic arch repair.
  • To assess the impact of ADHD on quality of life in this specific pediatric population.
  • To evaluate the treatment rates for ADHD in children who have undergone complex neonatal cardiac procedures.

Main Methods:

  • A cohort of children aged 5-16 who underwent specific neonatal heart surgeries were surveyed.
  • The ADHD-IV and Child Health Questionnaire-50 were used for assessment.
  • ADHD classification was based on parent-reported diagnosis or a high ADHD-IV inattention score (⩾93rd percentile).

Main Results:

  • Of 57 returned surveys, 44% of children met the criteria for ADHD.
  • Prevalence varied by surgical type: 85% for interrupted aortic arch, 42.9% for coarctation/VSD repair, and 27.3% for hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
  • Only 28% of diagnosed children received ADHD treatment, and quality of life scores were correlated with ADHD severity.

Conclusions:

  • Children undergoing neonatal heart surgery, especially aortic arch repair, face significantly increased risks for developing ADHD.
  • A substantial proportion of these children have undiagnosed or untreated ADHD, negatively affecting their quality of life.
  • Multifactorial risks contribute to ADHD development in this vulnerable post-surgical population, highlighting a need for improved screening and intervention.
Abstract

Keywords:
neonatal cardiac surgery

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