Our Summary

This study evaluated the relationship between certain brain health indicators and survival rates in infants after heart surgery. Specifically, researchers looked at levels of a protein called S100B and brain oxygen levels. They found that infants who did not survive had higher levels of S100B and lower brain oxygen levels compared to those who survived. They also had lower blood pressure and higher lactate levels in their blood. However, the researchers couldn’t establish definitive thresholds from the data to predict survival. Still, they suggest that unusual levels of these indicators could signal potential problems.

FAQs

  1. What brain health indicators did the study evaluate in relation to infant survival rates post-heart surgery?
  2. What were the findings related to the protein S100B and brain oxygen levels in infants who did not survive after heart surgery?
  3. Why were the researchers unable to establish definitive thresholds from the data to predict survival rates in infants after cardiac surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about pediatric cardiac surgery is to closely monitor their child’s brain health indicators, such as S100B levels, brain oxygen levels, blood pressure, and lactate levels. Any unusual changes in these indicators could signal potential problems and should be brought to the attention of the medical team immediately. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help improve outcomes for the child undergoing cardiac surgery.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended pediatric cardiac surgery are those with congenital heart defects, acquired heart diseases, or other cardiac conditions that cannot be managed effectively with medication or other non-surgical treatments. These patients may include infants, children, and adolescents with conditions such as atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, tetralogy of Fallot, transposition of the great arteries, and other complex heart defects. The decision to recommend cardiac surgery is typically made by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare providers, including pediatric cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other specialists, based on the specific needs and circumstances of each individual patient.

Timeline

Before pediatric cardiac surgery:

  1. Consultation with a pediatric cardiologist to diagnose heart condition and determine the need for surgery.
  2. Pre-operative testing, such as blood work, imaging studies, and electrocardiogram, to assess overall health and prepare for surgery.
  3. Meeting with a pediatric cardiac surgeon to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and post-operative care.
  4. Hospital admission for the surgery, with pre-operative preparation and monitoring.

After pediatric cardiac surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative care in the intensive care unit (ICU) to monitor vital signs, manage pain, and ensure the patient’s stability.
  2. Gradual recovery in the hospital, with monitoring of heart function, breathing, and overall health.
  3. Rehabilitation and physical therapy to help the patient regain strength and mobility.
  4. Follow-up appointments with the pediatric cardiologist and cardiac surgeon to monitor progress, adjust medications, and address any complications.
  5. Long-term follow-up care to monitor heart function, growth and development, and overall health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications associated with pediatric cardiac surgery?

  2. What is the success rate for this type of surgery in infants?

  3. What are the long-term effects and potential outcomes for my child following pediatric cardiac surgery?

  4. What is the expected recovery time and post-operative care for my child?

  5. Are there any specific tests or evaluations that should be done before surgery to ensure the best possible outcome?

  6. How experienced is the surgical team in performing pediatric cardiac surgeries?

  7. Will my child need ongoing cardiac care or follow-up appointments after surgery?

  8. What signs or symptoms should I watch for that could indicate a complication after surgery?

  9. Are there any lifestyle changes or restrictions my child will need to follow after surgery?

  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or procedures that could be considered for my child’s condition?

Reference

Authors: Irschik S, Stelzl S, Golej J, Schlager G, Zimpfer D, Herbst C, Michel-Behnke I, Kitzmüller E, Base E, Hermon M. Journal: Heart Lung. 2020 Nov-Dec;49(6):731-736. doi: 10.1016/j.hrtlng.2020.08.014. Epub 2020 Sep 4. PMID: 32896683