Common Pattern of Congenital Heart Disease with Outcome in Sick Term and Preterm Neonates Admitted in NICU

Abstract

Introduction: Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) is a significant cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality, often associated with complications such as respiratory distress and infections. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in improving neonatal outcomes, particularly in resource-limited settings. This study aimed to assess the prevalence, types, associated clinical complications, and management approaches of CHD in neonates. Materials & Methods: This retrospective study was conducted between January 2023, and December 2023, and included 61 neonates diagnosed with CHD. Data were obtained from medical records and included demographic information, echocardiographic findings, associated clinical complications (infant of diabetic mother, neonatal sepsis, pneumonia, preterm low birth weight, respiratory distress, perinatal asphyxia), and medical management, including oxygen therapy and pharmacological agents. Result: Of the 61 newborns, 22 (36.1%) had atrial septal defect (ASD), 15 (24.6%) had ventricular septal defect (VSD), 12 (19.7%) had patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), and 8 (13.1%). had patent foramen ovale (PFO). The most common associations were respiratory distress (38, 62.3%), pneumonia (21, 34.4%), jaundice (17, 27.9%), and preterm low birth weight (14, 23.0%) and IDM (13, 21.3%). Oxygen therapy was administered to 42 (68.9%) newborns and paracetamol therapy was administered to 19 (31.1%) newborns diagnosed with PDA. Conclusion: Congenital heart disease (CHD) continues to be a major health problem in infants, often accompanied by respiratory and infectious complications, with higher incidence in infants of diabetic mothers. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment with echocardiography can enhance prompt treatment and improve outcomes, especially for patients with Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA).