Neuromonitoring, neuroimaging, and neurodevelopmental follow-up practices in neonatal congenital heart disease: a European survey

Maria Feldmann, Cornelia Hagmann, Linda de Vries, Vera Disselhoff, Kuberan Pushparajah, Thushiha Logeswaran, Nicolaas J.G. Jansen, Johannes M.P.J. Breur, Walter Knirsch, Manon Benders, Serena Counsell, Bettina Reich, Beatrice Latal*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

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Abstract

Background: Brain injury and neurodevelopmental impairment remain a concern in children with complex congenital heart disease (CHD). A practice guideline on neuromonitoring, neuroimaging, and neurodevelopmental follow-up in CHD patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass surgery is lacking. The aim of this survey was to systematically evaluate the current practice in centers across Europe. Methods: An online-based structured survey was sent to pediatric cardiac surgical centers across Europe between April 2019 and June 2020. Results were summarized by descriptive statistics. Results: Valid responses were received by 25 European centers, of which 23 completed the questionnaire to the last page. Near-infrared spectroscopy was the most commonly used neuromonitoring modality used in 64, 80, and 72% preoperatively, intraoperatively, and postoperatively, respectively. Neuroimaging was most commonly performed by means of cranial ultrasound in 96 and 84% preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively. Magnetic resonance imaging was obtained in 72 and 44% preoperatively and postoperatively, respectively, but was predominantly reserved for clinically symptomatic patients (preoperatively 67%, postoperatively 64%). Neurodevelopmental follow-up was implemented in 40% of centers and planned in 24%. Conclusions: Heterogeneity in perioperative neuromonitoring and neuroimaging practice in CHD in centers across Europe is large. The need for neurodevelopmental follow-up has been recognized. A clear practice guideline is urgently needed. Impact: There is large heterogeneity in neuromonitoring, neuroimaging, and neurodevelopmental follow-up practices among European centers caring for neonates with complex congenital heart disease.This study provides a systematic evaluation of the current neuromonitoring, neuroimaging, and neurodevelopmental follow-up practice in Europe.The results of this survey may serve as the basis for developing a clear practice guideline that could help to early detect and prevent neurological and neurodevelopmental sequelae in neonates with complex congenital heart disease.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)168-175
Number of pages8
JournalPediatric Research
Volume93
Issue number1
Early online date12 Apr 2022
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Jan 2023

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