Recommendations for centers performing pediatric heart surgery in the United States

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Pediatric Cardiology
• Healthcare Quality Improvement

Background:

• Significant variability exists in pediatric and congenital heart surgery care and outcomes across US centers.
• The last comprehensive US recommendations for pediatric heart surgery were published over 20 years ago, highlighting a need for updated guidance.
• Previous collaborative efforts involving diverse healthcare professionals have not been undertaken for this patient population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop updated, consensus-based recommendations for pediatric heart surgery care in United States centers.
• To establish standards for Essential Care Centers and Comprehensive Care Centers.
• To provide a framework for improving the quality and consistency of care for children undergoing heart surgery.

Main Methods:

• A collaborative initiative involving multiple professional societies and healthcare professionals, including congenital cardiac surgeons and pediatric cardiologists.
• Development of recommendations encompassing structure, process, and outcome metrics across 14 domains.
• Focus on pediatric heart surgery, with a recommendation for future work on the adult congenital population.

Main Results:

• Publication of consensus recommendations for pediatric heart surgery care.
• Definition of criteria for Essential Care Centers and Comprehensive Care Centers.
• Establishment of structure, process, and outcome metrics to guide care delivery.

Conclusions:

• The developed recommendations provide a crucial update to pediatric heart surgery standards in the US.
• The initiative establishes a framework for optimizing care delivery and improving outcomes for pediatric and congenital heart patients.
• Future efforts should extend these recommendations to the adult congenital heart disease population.