Postoperative responses in 'prepared' child after cardiac surgery

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Psychology
• Cardiovascular Surgery Outcomes
• Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

Background:

• Assessing postoperative psychological reactions in pediatric patients undergoing cardiac surgery is crucial for understanding long-term well-being.
• Realistic preparation aims to mitigate potential adverse psychological effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze acute and long-term postoperative psychological reactions in children and adolescents.
• To evaluate the impact of age on these reactions following cardiac surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective analysis of 60 children and adolescents prepared for cardiac surgery.
• Postoperative assessment included in-hospital observation and follow-up questionnaires (6 months to 4 years) for 50 participants.
• Reactions were evaluated based on age groups.

Main Results:

• No in-hospital delirium or psychoses were observed.
• Children aged 2-7 years exhibited the most negative reactions, including the only long-term adverse effects.
• Children aged 8-11 years showed the fewest negative reactions and the most positive gains.
• Adolescents (12-19 years) expressed concerns about body image and surgical scars.

Conclusions:

• Realistic preparation for pediatric cardiac surgery is effective in preventing acute psychological issues.
• Age significantly influences postoperative psychological outcomes, with 8-11 year olds demonstrating the most favorable adjustment.
• Long-term psychological well-being is influenced by age at the time of surgery.