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Congenital heart disease in the first month of life
Insights
This study analyzed 276 infants with congenital heart disease (CHD), finding low survival rates and identifying ventricular septal defect as the most common anomaly. Many infants needing surgery did not receive it, highlighting a critical gap in care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Congenital Malformations
- Public Health
Background:
- Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a significant cause of infant mortality.
- Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for improving outcomes in infants with CHD.
- Understanding the spectrum of cardiac anomalies and associated conditions is vital for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence and types of congenital heart disease in neonates admitted to a hospital.
- To determine the survival rates for infants with CHD within the first year of life.
- To assess the gap between the number of patients suitable for surgery and those who received it.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical records for 276 infants admitted with CHD between 1963-1973.
- Analysis of cardiac anomalies, extracardiac malformations, and treatment received.
- Estimation of surgical candidacy based on necropsy reports and clinical data.
Main Results:
- Ventricular septal defect and transposition of the great arteries were the most frequent anomalies, accounting for 35% of cases.
- Extracardiac malformations were present in 86 patients.
- Cumulative survival rates were 66% at 1 month and 33% at 1 year.
- Only 43 patients underwent surgery, while an estimated 74 suitable candidates died without intervention.
Conclusions:
- Infants with congenital heart disease face significant mortality risks, particularly within the first year of life.
- A substantial number of infants with correctable heart defects do not receive timely surgical treatment.
- Improved access to surgical care for neonates with congenital heart disease is essential to reduce mortality.
Abstract:
During the years 1963--73, 276 children with congenital heart disease were admitted to this hospital during their first month of life. Ventricular septal defect was the most common cardiac anomaly and this lesion, together with transposition of the great arteries, comprised 35% of all cardiovascular malformations. Extracardiac malformations were found in 86 patients. The cumulative survival rate for all patients was 66% in the first month of life and 33% in the first year. Forty-three patients were operated upon, but it is estimated from necropsy reports and available clinical data that another 74 patients, who died without operation, would have been suitable candidates for total corrective surgery.