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Choreic syndrome after cardiac surgery
R O Robinson1, M Samuels, K R Pohl
1Newcomen Centre, Guy's Hospital, London.
Insights
Five children developed acute choreic syndrome after hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. While most symptoms improved, the neurological complications highlight potential risks of the procedure.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatrics
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
Background:
- Hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass surgery is a critical procedure in pediatric cardiac interventions.
- Neurological complications can arise post-cardiac surgery, impacting patient recovery.
- Acute choreic syndrome is characterized by involuntary, irregular movements.
Abstract:
Five children had an acute choreic syndrome that started three to seven days after hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass surgery. Improvement after an interval was seen in all, with complete resolution in two. In addition to the chorea, all children suffered complete supranuclear ophthalmoplegia, which has also shown subsequent improvement. Bulbar damage caused considerable speech problems. There was no cognitive impairment. Several drugs were tried without effect. Investigations of the cause, including histological examination, have been unrevealing.