Epidemiology and outcomes of pediatric cardiac arrest in a cardiovascular unit at a public hospital in Argentina.

BACKGROUND: Children with congenital heart disease present a higher frequency of cardiorespiratory arrest (CRA) than the general pediatric population. The epidemiology of CRA is not exactly known in our setting, nor are the mortality risk or the neurological evolution factors. OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiology and outcomes associated with pediatric cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a cardiovascular recovery unit. The primary endpoint was the survival to discharge and the secondary endpoints were the return to spontaneous circulation, the survival at 24 hours and the remote neurological condition. METHODS: Descriptive, prospective, longitudinal cohort study in children under 18 years of age who required cardiopulmonary resuscitation between 2016 and 2019. Demographic variables, characteristics of cardiopulmonary arrest, resuscitation and outcome were analyzed. An uni- and multivariate analysis was performed comparing survivors and deceased. RESULTS: Out of 1,842 hospitalized patients, 4.1% presented CRA. Fifty patients with complete records were analyzed. Seventy-eight percent (39) returned to spontaneous circulation with a high survival rate of 46%. Resuscitation > 6 min and the use of vasoactive drugs were predictors of mortality; 16/23 patients were followed up, 10 of them with normal development for age at 6 months, six had pervasive developmental disorder. CONCLUSIONS: 4.1% of patients presented CRA, with a rate of 3.4 CRA per 1,000 patient-days. Survival at hospital discharge (n = 50) was 46%. Resuscitation > 6 min and the use of vasoactive drugs were independent predictors of mortality. At six months, 63% had normal neurological development for age.

ANTECEDENTES: Los niños con cardiopatías congénitas experimentan paro cardiorrespiratorio (PCR) con mayor frecuencia que la población pediátrica general. Se desconoce la epidemiología exacta del PCR en nuestro medio, al igual que el riesgo de mortalidad y los factores que influyen en la evolución neurológica. OBJETIVO: Describir la epidemiología y los resultados asociados con la reanimación cardiopulmonar pediátrica en una unidad de recuperación cardiovascular. El criterio de valoración primario fue la supervivencia al momento del alta hospitalaria; los secundarios fueron el retorno de la circulación espontánea, la supervivencia a las 24 horas y la condición neurológica en el largo plazo. MÉTODO: Estudio de cohorte longitudinal, descriptivo, prospectivo, en menores de 18 años que requirieron reanimación cardiopulmonar entre 2016 y 2019. Se analizaron las variables demográficas y las características del paro cardiorrespiratorio y de la reanimación, así como su resultado. Se realizaron análisis de una y múltiples variables para comparar a los pacientes sobrevivientes con los fallecidos. RESULTADOS: De los 1,842 pacientes internados, el 4.1% experimentó PCR. Se analizaron 50 pacientes con expedientes completos. Se logró el retorno de la circulación espontánea en el 78% (39), con una supervivencia alta del 46%. La reanimación > 6 min y el uso de fármacos vasoactivos fueron factores predictivos de mortalidad; se realizó el seguimiento de 16/23 pacientes, 10 de ellos con desarrollo normal para la edad luego de seis meses, seis tenían trastorno generalizado del desarrollo. CONCLUSIONES: El 4.1% de los pacientes presentó un PCR, con una tasa de 3.4 PCR por 1,000 días-paciente. La supervivencia al egreso hospitalario (n = 50) fue del 46%. La reanimación > 6 min y la utilización de fármacos vasoactivos fueron factores predictivos independientes de mortalidad. Luego de seis meses, el 63% tenía desarrollo neurológico normal para la edad.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Training Program in A Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit: An 8-Year Single-Center Experience in Argentina.

INTRODUCTION: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for temporary cardiopulmonary support is one of the most intense and technologically complex therapies offered in medicine. It is a high-risk procedure that requires specific knowledge and technical skills to perform it with good results. OBJECTIVE: The main goal of this study is to describe our extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) training program based on the study of specialized nurses and physicians of a simulation teaching experience, conducted in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit. The program was developed as a theoretical-practical course with final exam and annual maintenance training sessions, caring for ECMO patients, its implementation and results. METHODS: A descriptive study for registered nurses, intensivists, and cardiac surgeons. A self-administered, anonymous, and voluntary survey was conducted to assess the long-term perception about the program. Demographic data to describe the population was required, and questions about satisfaction and confidence in acquired skills and competences were asked. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed; patient survival and complications were compared before and after ECMO program using chi-square test, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Twenty-four training courses were performed for 68 professionals. More than 88% of the professionals considered the course components to be adequate and complete; and 94% felt trained to manage the ECMO circuit. Most valued activities were workshops and clinical cases. Since the implementation of the training program, 88 patients were assisted, with a survival rate at discharge of 58%, higher than in the previous period (P=0.03). CONCLUSION: More than 80% of the professionals considered the workshops and simulations as the most useful components. Reliance on the circuit care was higher than in training problem scenarios. Since 2013 we assisted 88 patients on ECMO, with a survival rate at discharge of 58%, within international standards results.

Effectiveness of a program for the reduction of central venous catheter-related bacteremias in a Pediatric Cardiovascular Unit / Efectividad de un programa de reducción de bacteriemias relacionadas con catéter venoso central en una unidad cardiovascular pediátrica

INTRODUCTION: Central venous catheter (CVC)- related bacteremias are common in pediatric patients following surgery for complex congenital heart disease admitted to a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU) and have a high morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary program for the prevention of CVC-related bacteremias in the PCICU. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Quasi-experimental, before and after implementation study without a control group. Study period: 01-01-2008 to 12- 31-2018. Population: PCICU staff who care for patients following surgery for complex heart disease at a hospital. Pre-intervention period: 01- 01-2008 to 12-31-2008; intervention period: 01-01- 2009 to 01-01-2018. Intervention: implementation of an ongoing improvement program. The rate of CVC-related bacteremias/1000 days and CVC use/100 days, RACHS score, standardized infection ratio (SIR), relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were analyzed and a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The reference rate was estimated as the average for the 2008-2009 period and the annual and reference rates were compared. RESULTS: The bacteremia reference rate for 2008- 2009 was 10.6/1000 days of CVC to analyze the SIR. A RACHS score over 3 was similar across all studied periods. The annual comparison showed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the SIR. The comparison between the baseline bacteremia rate/1000 days of CVC (11.9) and the final rate (3.8) showed a significant reduction (RR: 0.16; 95 % CI: 0.07-0.35; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The program was effective; the rate of CVC-related bacteremias in the PCICU showed a progressive, significant reduction.

Introducción. Las bacteriemias relacionadas con catéteres venosos centrales (CVC) son frecuentes en pacientes pediátricos posquirúrgicos de cardiopatías congénitas complejas internados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos cardiovascular (UCIP-CV) y tienen alta morbimortalidad. OBJETIVO: Analizar la efectividad de un programa interdisciplinario para prevención de bacteriemias relacionadas con CVC en la UCIP-CV. Material y métodos. Estudio de implementación, cuasiexperimental, antes-después, sin grupo control. Período de estudio del 1 de enero de 2008 al 31 de diciembre de 2018. Población: equipo de salud de la UCIP-CV que atiende pacientes posquirúrgicos de cardiopatías complejas de un hospital. Período preintervención del 1 de enero de 2008 al 31 de diciembre de 2008; período de intervención del 1 de enero de 2009 al 1 de enero de 2018. Intervención: implementación de un programa de mejora continua. Se analizaron tasas de bacteriemias CVC/1000 días y de uso de CVC/100 días, puntaje de RACHS, razón estandarizada de infecciones (REI), riesgo relativo (RR), intervalo de confianza del 95 % (IC95%), estimando una p < 0,05 como estadísticamente significativa. La tasa de referencia se estimó como el promedio del período 2008/2009 y se comparó la tasa anual con la tasa de referencia. RESULTADOS: La tasa de referencia de bacteriemia 2008/2009 fue 10,6/1000 días CVC para analizar la REI. El puntaje de RACHS mayor a 3 fue similar en todos los períodos analizados. Se observó una reducción de la REI estadísticamente significativa (p < 0,05) en la comparación anual. Al comparar la tasa de bacteriemia/1000 días de CVC inicial de 11,9 vs. final de 3,8, se observó una reducción significativa (RR: 0,16; IC95%: 0,07-0,35; p < 0,001). CONCLUSIONES: El programa fue efectivo; se observó reducción progresiva y significativa de la tasa de bacteriemias relacionadas con CVC en la UCIP-CV.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Training Program in A Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit: An 8-Year Single-Center Experience in Argentina

ABSTRACT Introduction: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for temporary cardiopulmonary support is one of the most intense and technologically complex therapies offered in medicine. It is a high-risk procedure that requires specific knowledge and technical skills to perform it with good results. Objective: The main goal of this study is to describe our extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) training program based on the study of specialized nurses and physicians of a simulation teaching experience, conducted in a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit. The program was developed as a theoretical-practical course with final exam and annual maintenance training sessions, caring for ECMO patients, its implementation and results. Methods: A descriptive study for registered nurses, intensivists, and cardiac surgeons. A self-administered, anonymous, and voluntary survey was conducted to assess the long-term perception about the program. Demographic data to describe the population was required, and questions about satisfaction and confidence in acquired skills and competences were asked. A descriptive statistical analysis was performed; patient survival and complications were compared before and after ECMO program using chi-square test, and P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Twenty-four training courses were performed for 68 professionals. More than 88% of the professionals considered the course components to be adequate and complete; and 94% felt trained to manage the ECMO circuit. Most valued activities were workshops and clinical cases. Since the implementation of the training program, 88 patients were assisted, with a survival rate at discharge of 58%, higher than in the previous period (P=0.03). Conclusion: More than 80% of the professionals considered the workshops and simulations as the most useful components. Reliance on the circuit care was higher than in training problem scenarios. Since 2013 we assisted 88 patients on ECMO, with a survival rate at discharge of 58%, within international standards results.

Efectividad de un programa de reducción de bacteriemias relacionadas con catéter venoso central en una unidad cardiovascular pediátrica / Effectiveness of a program for the reduction of central venous catheter-related bacteremias in a Pediatric Cardiovascular Unit

Introducción. Las bacteriemias relacionadas con catéteres venosos centrales (CVC) son frecuentes en pacientes pediátricos posquirúrgicos de cardiopatías congénitas complejas internados en la unidad de cuidados intensivos pediátricos cardiovascular (UCIP-CV) y tienen alta morbimortalidad. Objetivo. Analizar la efectividad de un programa interdisciplinario para prevención de bacteriemias relacionadas con CVC en la UCIP-CV. Material y métodos. Estudio de implementación, cuasiexperimental, antes-después, sin grupo control. Período de estudio del 1 de enero de 2008 al 31 de diciembre de 2018. Población: equipo de salud de la UCIP-CV que atiende pacientes posquirúrgicos de cardiopatías complejas de un hospital. Período preintervención del 1 de enero de 2008 al 31 de diciembre de 2008; período de intervención del 1 de enero de 2009 al 1 de enero de 2018. Intervención: implementación de un programa de mejora continua. Se analizaron tasas de bacteriemias CVC/1000 días y de uso de CVC/100 días, puntaje de RACHS, razón estandarizada de infecciones (REI), riesgo relativo (RR), intervalo de confianza del 95 % (IC95%), estimando una p < 0,05 como estadísticamente significativa. La tasa de referencia se estimó como el promedio del período 2008/2009 y se comparó la tasa anual con la tasa de referencia. Resultados. La tasa de referencia de bacteriemia 2008/2009 fue 10,6/1000 días CVC para analizar la REI. El puntaje de RACHS mayor a 3 fue similar en todos los períodos analizados. Se observó una reducción de la REI estadísticamente significativa (p < 0,05) en la comparación anual. Al comparar la tasa de bacteriemia/1000 días de CVC inicial de 11,9 vs. final de 3,8, se observó una reducción significativa (RR: 0,16; IC95%: 0,07-0,35; p < 0,001). Conclusiones. El programa fue efectivo; se observó reducción progresiva y significativa de la tasa de bacteriemias relacionadas con CVC en la UCIP-CV.

Introduction. Central venous catheter (CVC)related bacteremias are common in pediatric patients following surgery for complex congenital heart disease admitted to a pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU) and have a high morbidity and mortality. Objective.To analyze the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary program for the prevention of CVC-related bacteremias in the PCICU. Material and methods. Quasi-experimental,before and after implementation study without a control group. Study period: 01-01-2008 to 1231-2018. Population: PCICU staff who care for patients following surgery for complex heart disease at a hospital. Pre-intervention period: 0101-2008 to 12-31-2008; intervention period: 01-012009 to 01-01-2018. Intervention: implementation of an ongoing improvement program. The rate of CVC-related bacteremias/1000 days and CVC use/100 days, RACHS score, standardized infection ratio (SIR), relative risk (RR), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were analyzed and a p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. The reference rate was estimated as the average for the 2008-2009 period and the annual and reference rates were compared. Results. The bacteremia reference rate for 20082009 was 10.6/1000 days of CVC to analyze the SIR. A RACHS score over 3 was similar across all studied periods. The annual comparison showed a statistically significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the SIR. The comparison between the baseline bacteremia rate/1000 days of CVC (11.9) and the final rate (3.8) showed a significant reduction (RR: 0.16; 95 % CI: 0.07­0.35; p < 0.001). Conclusions. The program was effective; the rate of CVC-related bacteremias in the PCICU showed a progressive, significant reduction.

Meeting nutritional needs of infants under 3 months of life within the first week after cardiovascular surgery.

BACKGROUND: After heart surgery requiring cardiopulmonary bypass, neonates have a profound metabolic response to stress. If adequate nutritional support is not provided this leads to loss of lean mass and deterioration of vital organs. The objective of this study was to describe the nutritional status and nutritional support achieved in infants younger than 3 months of life undergo in cardiovascular surgery. METHODS: A prospective, descriptive study was conducted in a Pediatric Cardiovascular intensive therapy at tertiary care center. All patients younger than 3 months of life admitted to the cardiovascular unit undergoing heart surgery between April 2013 and May2014 were included. We proposed to achieve 67 kcal/kg/day as one of the nutritional intervention goals. The children were evaluated on admission and at 3 and 7 days post-surgery. RESULTS: Seventy-four patients were evaluated. Total parenteral nutrition could be implemented in all patients that were entered into the protocol requiring parenteral nutrition. Mean volume administered over this period was 50 mL/kg/day (range, 25 to 80 mL/kg/day). Evaluation on admission, at 72 hours, and one week postoperatively showed that 70%, 69%, and 62.7% of the patients, respectively, were not able to achieve the 67 kcal/kg/day proposed as one of the nutritional intervention goals. It was found that at the three study time points enteral and parental caloric intake could cover 100% of the metabolic resting energy expenditure (REE) estimated using the Schofield and WHO equations with no significant differences between the two. CONCLUSIONS: Although the calorie intake proposed by our intervention was not achieved, it did cover 100% of the REE calculated by the equations.

Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en un programa de cirugía cardiovascular pediátrica de un hospital público de Argentina / Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a pediatric cardiovascular surgery program of a public hospital from Argentina

Objetivo. Describir el impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en el programa de cirugía cardiovascular pediátrica y estimar el tiempo para reducir la lista de espera quirúrgica. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se compararon resultados quirúrgicos del período preCOVID versus el período COVID. Se utilizó un modelo matemático para estimar el tiempo para reducir la lista de espera. Resultados. Entre el 23 de marzo y el 31 de agosto de 2020 se operaron 83 pacientes, que representan una reducción del 60 %, respecto al período preCOVID. La mediana de edad fue de 6 meses (rango intercuartílico [RIC]: 25-75, 1,8 meses a 2,9 años; p = 0,0023. El tiempo para eliminar la lista de espera varía entre 10 y 19 meses. Conclusiones. El programa tuvo una reducción del 60 %. El tiempo de resolución de la lista de espera puede ser al menos 10 a 19 meses

Objective. To describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a pediatric cardiovascular surgery program and estimate the necessary time to reduce the surgery waiting list. Methods. Retrospective, descriptive study. Surgical outcomes from the pre-COVID-19 period and COVID-19 period were compared. A mathematical model was used to estimate the time necessary to reduce the waiting list. Results. Between March 23rd and August 31st, 2020, 83 patients underwent surgery, accounting for a 60 % reduction compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Their median age was 6 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 25-75, 1.8 months to 2.9 years; p = 0.0023). The time necessary to eliminate the waiting list ranges from 10 to 19 months. Conclusions. There was a 60 % reduction in the program. The time required to clear the backlog of cases may range from, at least, 10 to 19 month

Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a pediatric cardiovascular surgery program of a public hospital from Argentina. / Impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en un programa de cirugía cardiovascular pediátrica de un hospital público de Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a pediatric cardiovascular surgery program and estimate the necessary time to reduce the surgery waiting list. METHODS: Retrospective, descriptive study. Surgical outcomes from the pre-COVID-19 period and COVID-19 period were compared. A mathematical model was used to estimate the time necessary to reduce the waiting list. RESULTS: Between March 23rd and August 31st, 2020, 83 patients underwent surgery, accounting for a 60 % reduction compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. Their median age was 6 months (interquartile range [IQR]: 25-75, 1.8 months to 2.9 years; p = 0.0023). The time necessary to eliminate the waiting list ranges from 10 to 19 months. CONCLUSIONS: There was a 60 % reduction in the program. The time required to clear the backlog of cases may range from, at least, 10 to 19 months.

Objetivo. Describir el impacto de la pandemia por COVID-19 en el programa de cirugía cardiovascular pediátrica y estimar el tiempo para reducir la lista de espera quirúrgica. Métodos. Estudio descriptivo y retrospectivo. Se compararon resultados quirúrgicos del período preCOVID versus el período COVID. Se utilizó un modelo matemático para estimar el tiempo para reducir la lista de espera. Resultados. Entre el 23 de marzo y el 31 de agosto de 2020 se operaron 83 pacientes, que representan una reducción del 60 %, respecto al período preCOVID. La mediana de edad fue de 6 meses (rango intercuartílico [RIC]: 25-75, 1,8 meses a 2,9 años; p = 0,0023. El tiempo para eliminar la lista de espera varía entre 10 y 19 meses. Conclusiones. El programa tuvo una reducción del 60 %. El tiempo de resolución de la lista de espera puede ser al menos 10 a 19 meses.

Morbilidad en cirugía de cardiopatìa congénita en un hospital público en Argentina / Morbidity in congenital heart surgery in a public hospital in Argentina

Objetivo: Describir las complicaciones asociadas a cirugía cardíaca, compararlas con una población de referencia e identificar factores de riesgo de mortalidad. Pacientes y métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes operados en 2013-2015 en el Hospital Garrahan. Se registró edad, peso, procedimiento, ventilación mecánica, días de internación, morbilidad y evolución. Se consideró morbilidad la insuficiencia renal con diálisis, déficit neurológico, marcapaso permanente, asistencia circulatoria, parálisis frénica o de cuerdas vocales, reoperación, infección de herida, quilotórax y traqueotomía. Se realizó un análisis estadístico descriptivo y por categorías de riesgo utilizando la escala de morbilidad de la Sociedad de Cirugía Torácica (Surgical Thoracic Society, STS). Resultados: 1536 pacientes, mediana de 12 meses (rango intercuartílico -RIC- 25-75: 3-60), peso de 8 kg (RIC25-75: de 4,4 a 17,5), con mortalidad de 5%. Se registraron 361 eventos en 183 pacientes. La reoperación no planificada fue el más frecuente (7,2%); los restantes ocurrieron en ≤ 3% de los pacientes. En comparación con los pacientes sin complicaciones, los pacientes con eventos tuvieron más días de ventilación mecánica: 9,95 (RIC25-75: 7,65-12,24) vs. 1,8 (RIC25- 75: 1,46-2,14), p< 0,00001; mayor internación: 28,8 (RIC25-75: 25,1-32,5) vs. 8,5 (RIC25-75: 7,99,2), p <0,0001; y mayor mortalidad: 19,6% vs. 3,1%(RR 4,58;IC95%: de 3,4 a 6,0), p <0,0001. La asistencia circulatoria e insuficiencia renal se asociaron con mayor mortalidad. Conclusiones: La reoperación no planificada fue el evento más frecuente. Los pacientes con complicaciones tuvieron más días de ventilación mecánica, de internación y mayor mortalidad. La asistencia circulatoria y la insuficiencia renal se asociaron con mayor mortalidad.

Objective: To describe the complications associated with heart surgery, compare them to a reference population, and identify mortality risk factors. Patients and methods: Retrospective and descriptive study. All patients who underwent surgery at Hospital Garrahan in the 2013-2015 period were included. Age, weight, procedure, mechanical ventilation, length of stay in days, morbidity, and course were recorded. Renal failure requiring dialysis, neurological deficit, permanent pacemaker, circulatory support, phrenic nerve or vocal cord palsy, reoperation, wound infection, chylothorax, and tracheotomy were considered morbidities. A descriptive, statistical analysis by risk category was done using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) morbidity score. Results: 1536 patients, median age: 12 months (interquartile range --#91;IQR--#93; 25-75: 3-60), weight: 8 kg (IQR 25-75: 4.4 to 17.5), mortality: 5%. A total of 361 events were recorded in 183 patients. An unplanned reoperation was the most common event (7.2%); the rest occurred in < 3% of patients. Compared to patients without complications, patients who had events required more days on mechanical ventilation: 9.95 (IQR 25-75: 7.6512.24) versus 1.8 (IQR 2575: 1.46-2.14), p< 0.00001; a longer length of stay: 28.8 (IQR 25-75: 25.1-32.5) versus 8.5 (IQR 25-75: 7.9-9.2), p< 0.0001; and had a higher mortality: 19.6% versus 3.1% (RR: 4.58, 95% CI: 3.4 to 6.0), p< 0.0001. Circulatory support and renal failure were associated with a higher mortality. Conclusions: An unplanned reoperation was the most common event. Patients with complications required more days on mechanical ventilation and a longer length of stay and had a higher mortality. Circulatory support and renal failure were associated with a higher mortality.

Morbidity in congenital heart surgery in a public hospital in Argentina. / Morbilidad en cirugía de cardiopatìa congénita en un hospital público en Argentina.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the complications associated with heart surgery, compare them to a reference population, and identify mortality risk factors. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective and descriptive study. All patients who underwent surgery at Hospital Garrahan in the 2013-2015 period were included. Age, weight, procedure, mechanical ventilation, length of stay in days, morbidity, and course were recorded. Renal failure requiring dialysis, neurological deficit, permanent pacemaker, circulatory support, phrenic nerve or vocal cord palsy, reoperation, wound infection, chylothorax, and tracheotomy were considered morbidities. A descriptive, statistical analysis by risk category was done using the Society of Thoracic Surgeons (STS) morbidity score. RESULTS: 1536 patients, median age: 12 months (interquartile range [IQR] 25-75: 3-60), weight: 8 kg (IQR 25-75: 4.4 to 17.5), mortality: 5%. A total of 361 events were recorded in 183 patients. An unplanned reoperation was the most common event (7.2%); the rest occurred in < 3% of patients. Compared to patients without complications, patients who had events required more days on mechanical ventilation: 9.95 (IQR 25-75: 7.6512.24) versus 1.8 (IQR 2575: 1.46-2.14), p< 0.00001; a longer length of stay: 28.8 (IQR 25-75: 25.1-32.5) versus 8.5 (IQR 25-75: 7.9-9.2), p< 0.0001; and had a higher mortality: 19.6% versus 3.1% (RR: 4.58, 95% CI: 3.4 to 6.0), p< 0.0001. Circulatory support and renal failure were associated with a higher mortality. CONCLUSIONS: An unplanned reoperation was the most common event. Patients with complications required more days on mechanical ventilation and a longer length of stay and had a higher mortality. Circulatory support and renal failure were associated with a higher mortality.

OBJETIVO: Describir las complicaciones asociadas a cirugía cardíaca, compararlas con una población de referencia e identificar factores de riesgo de mortalidad. PACIENTES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo. Se incluyeron todos los pacientes operados en 2013-2015 en el Hospital Garrahan. Se registró edad, peso, procedimiento, ventilación mecánica, días de internación, morbilidad y evolución. Se consideró morbilidad la insuficiencia renal con diálisis, déficit neurológico, marcapaso permanente, asistencia circulatoria, parálisis frénica o de cuerdas vocales, reoperación, infección de herida, quilotórax y traqueotomía. Se realizó un análisis estadístico descriptivo y por categorías de riesgo utilizando la escala de morbilidad de la Sociedad de Cirugía Torácica (Surgical Thoracic Society, STS). RESULTADOS: 1536 pacientes, mediana de 12 meses (rango intercuartílico -RIC- 25-75: 3-60), peso de 8 kg (RIC25-75: de 4,4 a 17,5), con mortalidad de 5%. Se registraron 361 eventos en 183 pacientes. La reoperación no planificada fue el más frecuente (7,2%); los restantes ocurrieron en ≤ 3% de los pacientes. En comparación con los pacientes sin complicaciones, los pacientes con eventos tuvieron más días de ventilación mecánica: 9,95 (RIC25-75: 7,65-12,24) vs. 1,8 (RIC25- 75: 1,46-2,14), p< 0,00001; mayor internación: 28,8 (RIC25-75: 25,1-32,5) vs. 8,5 (RIC25-75: 7,99,2), p <0,0001; y mayor mortalidad: 19,6% vs. 3,1%(RR 4,58;IC95%: de 3,4 a 6,0), p <0,0001. La asistencia circulatoria e insuficiencia renal se asociaron con mayor mortalidad. CONCLUSIONES: La reoperación no planificada fue el evento más frecuente. Los pacientes con complicaciones tuvieron más días de ventilación mecánica, de internación y mayor mortalidad. La asistencia circulatoria y la insuficiencia renal se asociaron con mayor mortalidad.

Impact of the time of diagnosis on the postoperative outcome of newborn infants with congenital heart disease in a public hospital in Argentina.

Congenital heart diseases account for 13% of child mortality, and late diagnosis increases morbidity and mortality. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of the time of diagnosis in newborn infants on the postoperative course. The time of diagnosis was classified into prenatal, before or after discharge from the maternity center. Two hundred ninety-nine patients were included; their gestational age was 38 ± 2.6 weeks and their birth weight was 3.22 ± 0.6 kg. Two hundred sixty-six patients underwent surgery, 13 were excluded due to the characteristics of the lesion, and 10 because of hemodynamic collapse, while 10 were treated at the Cath Lab or were operated beyond the neonatal period. Only 19 patients (7%) were diagnosed before birth; most were patients who had health insurance, lived in the City of Buenos Aires or in capital cities of other provinces. The time of diagnosis was not associated with differences in mortality; however, an association was observed with a poor preoperative clinical status, with 3.6% of patients who died before surgery. Postoperative survival was 89.5%; overall survival was 83%.

Series de Pediatría Garrahan. El niño con cardiopatía congénita

A 27 años del nacimiento del Hospital Garrahan, hemos sentido la necesidad de compartir con el equipo de salud las estrategias de atención del niño y su familia utilizadas en nuestro Hospital, colaborar con su actualización permanente y poner énfasis en el trabajo interdisciplinario. En este tomo desarrollamos el tema del niño con cardiopatía congénita. Se trata de la malformación congénita grave más frecuente, que se presenta en aproximadamente 5 a 8 cada mil nacidos vivos. En Argentina, nacen alrededor de 700.000 niños cada año, es decir alrededor de 4.500 con esta patología. La supervivencia actual con calidad de vida futura normal es alta para la mayoría de estos niños. A esto contribuyen las mejoras en el diagnóstico prenatal y neonatal temprano, el traslado seguro, la estabilización preoperatoria y el tratamiento por equipos cardiovasculares interdisciplinarios. El rol del pediatra es fundamental en el diagnóstico y seguimiento de estos pacientes. En este volumen, el pediatra encontrará aspectos epidemiológicos y patogénicos de algunas de las enfermedades más prevalentes, así como claves para el diagnóstico oportuno, con énfasis en la semiología y los estudios complementarios accesibles, indicaciones de derivación, prevención de riesgos y asesoramiento general para pacientes y padres.

Cierre de comunicación interventricular en menores de un año en un hospital público / Ventricular septal defect repair in children during first year of life in a public hospital

Introducción. La comunicación interventricular (CIV) es la cardiopatía congénita más frecuente y el cierre quirúrgico primario es la estrategia de elección para corregirla. El objetivo es describir los resultados de la reparación quirúrgica en menores de 1 año y analizar factores de riesgo de morbilidad y mortalidad. Pacientes y métodos. Estudio retrospectivo; se incluyeron todos los pacientes con CIV operados entre 2004 y 2011. Se registraron variables demográficas, de la cirugía y del posoperatorio: edad, peso, síndrome genético, tipo de CIV, días de internación, complicaciones y evolución. Como factores de riesgo de mortalidad y morbilidad, se analizaron edad < 6 m, peso < 3 kg, síndrome de Down, desnutrición e infección respiratoria previa. Resultados. Se operaron 256 pacientes, con edad de 5,3 meses (21 d-1 a), peso de 4,75 kg (2,2-13), 32% con síndrome de Down y 17,5% con ventilación mecánica preoperatoria. La CIV tipo perimembranosa fue la más frecuente (62%). El 28% presentó alguna complicación y el 7% requirió reoperación por sangrado, infección o defecto. La mediana de internación fue de 6 días (1-185). Se registró una mortalidad posoperatoria de 3%. La desnutrición, edad < 6 m, peso < 3 kg y la infección respiratoria previa se asociaron a una internación prolongada. No se identificaron factores de riesgo para la mortalidad. Conclusión. En nuestra institución, el cierre quirúrgico primario de la CIV es un procedimiento con resultados satisfactorios.

Objective. Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital heart disease; primary surgical closure is the usual strategy for repairing it. Our objective is to describe results of surgical repair in children under 1 year of age and analyze risk factors for morbidity and mortality. Patients and Methods. Retrospective study; all patients with VSD repaired between 2004 and 2011 were included. Demographic, surgical procedure and postoperative variables were recorded: age, weight, genetic syndrome, type of VSD, length of stay, complications and outcome. Risk factors of mortality and morbidity: age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, Down, malnutrition and respiratory infection prior syndrome were analyzed. Results. 256 patients, age 5.3 months (21d-1y), weight 4.75 kg (2.2 to 13), 32% with Down syndrome and 17.5% with preoperative mechanical ventilation were operated. Perimembranous VSD was the most frequent type (62%). 28% experienced complications and 7% required reoperation for bleeding, infection or defect. The median hospital stay was 6 days (1-185). Postoperative 30 days mortality was 3%. Age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, malnutrition and prior respiratory viral infection were associated with prolonged hospitalization, but no risk factors for mortality were identified. Conclusion. The primary surgical closure of the VSD is a procedure with satisfactory results at our institution.

Asistencia circulatoria mecánica en pediatría: Experiencia en el Hospital de Pediatría Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Argentina / Mechanical circulatory support in pediatrics: Experience at the Hospital de Pediatría Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Argentina

Introducción: La asistencia circulatoria mecánica permite aportar oxígeno a los tejidos en pacientes con enfermedades cardiacas y/o respiratorias reversibles refractarios a tratamientos convencionales. Objetivo: Mostrar los resultados iniciales de asistencia circulatoria mecánica en niños con cardiopatía en nuestra institución. Método: Estudio de cohorte descriptivo retrospectivo entre marzo de 2006 y marzo de 2012. Datos demográficos (edad, sexo, peso, diagnóstico cardiológico), de la cirugía (técnica, tiempo de bomba y de pinzamiento aórtico) y de la asistencia circulatoria mecánica (tipo, indicación, duración, complicaciones y evolución). Resultados: Fueron asistidos 33 pacientes (1.3% del total de cirugías), con oxigenación por membrana extracorpórea en 32 casos y un caso con dispositivo de asistencia ventricular. Mediana de edad 7.4 meses (un día-18 años) y peso 6 kg (2.3-75). Las malformaciones cardiacas que se asistieron con mayor frecuencia son las trasposiciones de grandes arterias asociadas a otras anomalías y las trasposiciones corregidas (inversión ventricular-doble discordancia). El motivo de ingreso más frecuente fue disfunción biventricular poscardiotomía. En 28 pacientes la asistencia circulatoria mecánica fue postoperatoria y en 4 preoperatoria. Un paciente presentó miocarditis. Mediana de asistencia 3 días (1-10). Complicaciones más frecuentes: infección el 21% y sangrado el 21%. Decanulación electiva en un 94% de los casos. Supervivencia con alta hospitalaria: 52%. Conclusiones: La asistencia circulatoria mecánica en nuestra institución es una herramienta segura con procedimiento estandarizado. Se utiliza en un reducido número de casos, con supervivencia similar a informes internacionales. Es un procedimiento complejo, plenamente justificado que permitió la recuperación en más de la mitad de los pacientes que de otro modo hubieran fallecido.

Introduction: Mechanical circulatory support provides oxygen to the tissues in patients with cardiac and/or respiratory reversible disease refractory to conventional treatments. Objective: The aim of this study is to show our initial results of mechanical circulatory support in children with heart disease. Method: Retrospective cohort between March 2006 and March 2012. Demographic data (age, sex, weight, cardiac diagnosis), surgery (technique, pump, aortic cross clamping time) and mechanical circulatory support (type of assistance, indication, duration, complications and outcome) were collected. Results: Thirty-three patients were supported (1.3% of all surgeries), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation 32 cases and one ventricular assist device. The median age 7.4 months (one day-18 years) and weight 6 kg (2.3-75). The most frequent cardiac malformations supported were the transpositions of the great arteries associated with other anomalies and the corrected transpositions (ventricular inversion or double discordance). The most common reason for admission was post-cardiotomy biventricular dysfunction. Twenty-eight patients were supported in the postoperative period, 4 in the preoperative period and in one with myocarditis. Median days of support were 3 days (1-10). The most common complications were infection (21%), bleeding (21%). Elective decannulation was achieved in 94% of cases. Hospital discharge survival: 52%. Conclusions: The mechanical circulatory support in our institution is a safe and standard procedure. We have been using it in a small number of cases with a similar survival to that reported internationally. This complex procedure is widely justified because it allows for the recovery of more than half of the patients who otherwise would have died.

[Ventricular septal defect repair in children during first year of life in a public hospital]. / Cierre de comunicación interventricular en menores de un año en un hospital público.

OBJECTIVE: Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital heart disease; primary surgical closure is the usual strategy for repairing it. Our objective is to describe results of surgical repair in children under 1 year of age and analyze risk factors for morbidity and mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study; all patients with VSD repaired between 2004 and 2011 were included. Demographic, surgical procedure and postoperative variables were recorded: age, weight, genetic syndrome, type of VSD, length of stay, complications and outcome. Risk factors of mortality and morbidity: age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, Down, malnutrition and respiratory infection prior syndrome were analyzed. RESULTS: 256 patients, age 5.3 months (21d-1y), weight 4.75 kg (2.2 to 13), 32% with Down syndrome and 17.5% with preoperative mechanical ventilation were operated. Perimembranous VSD was the most frequent type (62%). 28% experienced complications and 7% required reoperation for bleeding, infection or defect. The median hospital stay was 6 days (1-185). Postoperative 30 days mortality was 3%. Age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, malnutrition and prior respiratory viral infection were associated with prolonged hospitalization, but no risk factors for mortality were identified. CONCLUSION: The primary surgical closure of the VSD is a procedure with satisfactory results at our institution.

[Mechanical circulatory support in pediatrics. Experience at the Dr. Juan P. Garrahan Pediatric Hospital. Argentina]. / Asistencia circulatoria mecánica en pediatría. Experiencia en el Hospital de Pediatría Dr. Juan P. Garrahan. Argentina.

INTRODUCTION: Mechanical circulatory support provides oxygen to the tissues in patients with cardiac and/or respiratory reversible disease refractory to conventional treatments. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to show our initial results of mechanical circulatory support in children with heart disease. METHOD: Retrospective cohort between March 2006 and March 2012. Demographic data (age, sex, weight, cardiac diagnosis), surgery (technique, pump, aortic cross clamping time) and mechanical circulatory support (type of assistance, indication, duration, complications and outcome) were collected. RESULTS: Thirty-three patients were supported (1.3% of all surgeries), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation 32 cases and one ventricular assist device. The median age 7.4 months (one day-18 years) and weight 6kg (2.3-75). The most frequent cardiac malformations supported were the transpositions of the great arteries associated with other anomalies and the corrected transpositions (ventricular inversion or double discordance). The most common reason for admission was post-cardiotomy biventricular dysfunction. Twenty-eight patients were supported in the postoperative period, 4 in the preoperative period and in one with myocarditis. Median days of support were 3 days (1-10). The most common complications were infection (21%), bleeding (21%). Elective decannulation was achieved in 94% of cases. Hospital discharge survival: 52%. CONCLUSIONS: The mechanical circulatory support in our institution is a safe and standard procedure. We have been using it in a small number of cases with a similar survival to that reported internationally. This complex procedure is widely justified because it allows for the recovery of more than half of the patients who otherwise would have died.

Cierre de comunicación interventricular en menores de un año en un hospital público. / [Ventricular septal defect repair in children during first year of life in a public hospital].

OBJECTIVE: Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital heart disease; primary surgical closure is the usual strategy for repairing it. Our objective is to describe results of surgical repair in children under 1 year of age and analyze risk factors for morbidity and mortality. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Retrospective study; all patients with VSD repaired between 2004 and 2011 were included. Demographic, surgical procedure and postoperative variables were recorded: age, weight, genetic syndrome, type of VSD, length of stay, complications and outcome. Risk factors of mortality and morbidity: age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, Down, malnutrition and respiratory infection prior syndrome were analyzed. RESULTS: 256 patients, age 5.3 months (21d-1y), weight 4.75 kg (2.2 to 13), 32

with Down syndrome and 17.5

with preoperative mechanical ventilation were operated. Perimembranous VSD was the most frequent type (62

). 28

experienced complications and 7

required reoperation for bleeding, infection or defect. The median hospital stay was 6 days (1-185). Postoperative 30 days mortality was 3

. Age < 6 m, weight < 3 kg, malnutrition and prior respiratory viral infection were associated with prolonged hospitalization, but no risk factors for mortality were identified. CONCLUSION: The primary surgical closure of the VSD is a procedure with satisfactory results at our institution.