Peripheral Nerve Injuries in Patients Undergoing Congenital Cardiac Surgery and Cardiac Catheterization

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Cardiology
• Neurology
• Surgical Complications

Background:

• Peripheral nerve injury (PNI) is an under-recognized complication after cardiac procedures, impacting postoperative morbidity.
• Limited evidence exists regarding PNI in pediatric and adolescent populations following congenital cardiac interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe and review PNI in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery or catheterization.
• To identify potential risk factors associated with PNI.
• To compare PNI outcomes between surgical and catheterization procedures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective observational study at a single tertiary academic center.
• Included pediatric, adolescent, and young adult patients with documented PNI post-cardiac intervention.
• No interventions were performed; data collected retrospectively.

Main Results:

• Thirty patients with PNI were identified (19 surgical, 11 catheterization).
• More severe PNI and unresolved injuries were observed in the surgical cohort (42.1%).
• PNI affected lower extremities after surgery and upper extremities after catheterization; limb devices were noted on the affected side in 53.3% of cases.

Conclusions:

• PNI is a significant complication in pediatric cardiac patients, with surgery leading to more severe outcomes.
• This complication requires greater recognition and attention in pediatric cardiac care.
• Further research into risk factors and prevention strategies for PNI in this population is warranted.