Measurement of technical performance in congenital heart surgery: a pilot study

Development of a Sensor Technology to Objectively Measure Dexterity for Cardiac Surgical Proficiency

BACKGROUND

Technical skill is essential for good outcomes in cardiac surgery. However, no objective methods exist to measure dexterity while performing surgery. The purpose of this study was to validate sensor-based hand motion analysis (HMA) of technical dexterity while performing a graft anastomosis within a validated simulator.

METHODS

Surgeons at various training levels performed an anastomosis while wearing flexible sensors (BioStamp nPoint, MC10 Inc) with integrated accelerometers and gyroscopes on each hand to quantify HMA kinematics. Groups were stratified as experts (n = 8) or novices (n = 18). The quality of the completed anastomosis was scored using the 10 Point Microsurgical Anastomosis Rating Scale (MARS10). HMA parameters were compared between groups and correlated with quality. Logistic regression was used to develop a predictive model from HMA parameters to distinguish experts from novices.

RESULTS

Experts were faster (11 ± 6 minutes vs 21 ± 9 minutes; P = .012) and used fewer movements in both dominant (340 ± 166 moves vs 699 ± 284 moves; P = .003) and nondominant (359 ± 188 moves vs 567 ± 201 moves; P = .02) hands compared with novices. Experts' anastomoses were of higher quality compared with novices (9.0 ± 1.2 MARS10 vs 4.9 ± 3.2 MARS10; P = .002). Higher anastomosis quality correlated with 9 of 10 HMA parameters, including fewer and shorter movements of both hands (dominant, r = -0.65, r = -0.46; nondominant, r = -0.58, r = -0.39, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Sensor-based HMA can distinguish technical dexterity differences between experts and novices, and correlates with quality. Objective quantification of hand dexterity may be a valuable adjunct to training and education in cardiac surgery training programs.

Echocardiographic image collection and evaluation in infants with CHD: lessons learned from the imaging core lab for the Residual Lesion Score study

Many factors affect patient outcome after congenital heart surgery, including the complexity of the heart disease, pre-operative status, patient specific factors (prematurity, nutritional status and/or presence of comorbid conditions or genetic syndromes), and post-operative residual lesions. The Residual Lesion Score is a novel tool for assessing whether specific residual cardiac lesions after surgery have a measurable impact on outcome. The goal is to understand which residual lesions can be tolerated and which should be addressed prior to leaving the operating room. The Residual Lesion Score study is a large multicentre prospective study designed to evaluate the association of Residual Lesion Score to outcomes in infants undergoing surgery for CHD. This Pediatric Heart Network and National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute-funded study prospectively enrolled 1,149 infants undergoing 5 different congenital cardiac surgical repairs at 17 surgical centres. Given the contribution of echocardiographic measurements in assigning the Residual Lesion Score, the Residual Lesion Score study made use of a centralised core lab in addition to site review of all data. The data collection plan was designed with the added goal of collecting image quality information in a way that would permit us to improve our understanding of the reproducibility, variability, and feasibility of the echocardiographic measurements being made. There were significant challenges along the way, including the coordination, de-identification, storage, and interpretation of very large quantities of imaging data. This necessitated the development of new infrastructure and technology, as well as use of novel statistical methods. The study was successfully completed, but the size and complexity of the population being studied and the data being extracted required more technologic and human resources than expected which impacted the length and cost of conducting the study. This paper outlines the process of designing and executing this complex protocol, some of the barriers to implementation and lessons to be considered in the design of future studies.

Technical performance scores associate with early prognosis of tetralogy of Fallot repair

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between technical performance scores (TPS) and the early prognosis of tetralogy of Fallot repair (TOF).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on TOF repair patients at our center from Oct 2017 to Oct 2022. Patients were classified into Class 1 (no residua), Class 2 (minor residua), or Class 3 (major residua) based on TPS derived from predischarge echocardiograms and need for reintervention. Statistical methods were used to assess the association between TPS and early prognosis.

Results

A total of 75 TOF repair patients (40% female, 60% male) were analyzed and categorized into TPS1 (24%), TPS2 (53.3%), and TPS3 (22.6%) based on pre-discharge echocardiographic findings. The median follow-up time was 7.0 months. The multivariable Cox regression analysis indicated that TPS3 scores are associated with a 12.68-fold increase in risk compared to TPS1 and TPS2 scores [95% CI = 12.68 (0.9∼179.28), P = 0.06]. The Spearman rank correlation analysis revealed a weak positive correlation between TPS classification and low cardiac output syndrome (r = 0.26, P = 0.03). However, there were no significant differences in ICU stay or duration of mechanical ventilation among the groups.

Conclusion

TPS3 after intracardiac TOF repair is associated with higher risk of early re-intervention, highlighting the importance of close follow-up and monitoring in this patient population. Patients who develop low cardiac output syndrome in the early postoperative period may have residual defects that require prompt identification.

Influence of surgical performance on clinical outcome after osteosynthesis of distal radius fracture

INTRODUCTION

Clinical outcome after surgery depends on the surgeon's level of expertise or performance. The present study of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) with anterior plate for distal radius fracture assessed whether clinical outcome correlated with surgeon performance.

METHODS

The series included 30 distal radius fractures: 15 operated on by 4 level III surgeons (Group 1) and 15 by 4 level V surgeons (Group 2), utilizing the MIPO technique. The surgical performance of all 8 surgeons was assessed using the OSATS global rating scale. Clinical outcomes were assessed at 3 months' follow-up using the modified Mayo score (MMS), in 4 grades: 0-64 (poor), 65-79 (moderate), 80-89 (good), and 90-100 (excellent). The QuickDASH score (QDASH) was also calculated, and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

Median MMS was better for level V (75 = fair result) than level III surgeons (62 = poor result). Median QDASH score likewise was better in group 2 (9.1) than group 1 (22.7). In group 1, there were 2 paresthesias in the median nerve territory, 1 type-1 complex regional pain syndrome, and 1 hypoesthesia in the scar area. Mean correlation between the 2 scores was -0.68. Group 1 patients were on average 7 years older. The number of patients, number of surgeons and distribution of OA A and C fractures were almost identical in the two groups. On MMS, the overall result of the two groups was moderate (70.5), which can be explained by short mean follow-up.

DISCUSSION

Quality of the clinical outcome on MMS and QDASH increased with surgical performance, with fewer complications. In the patients' interest, protocols for improving surgical performance should be implemented, for example, through deliberate practice.

Extubation failure after cardiac surgery in children with Down syndrome

Extubation failure (EF) after cardiac surgery is associated with poorer outcomes. Approximately 50% of children with Down syndrome (DS) have congenital heart disease. Our primary aim was to describe the frequency of EF and identify risk factors for its occurrence in a population of patients with DS after cardiac surgery. Secondary aims were to describe complications, length of hospital stay, and mortality rates. This report was a retrospective case-control study and was carried out in a national reference congenital heart disease repair center of Chile. This study includes all infants 0-12 months old with DS who were admitted to pediatric intensive care unit after cardiac surgery between January 2010 and November 2020. Patients with EF (cases) were matched 1:1 with children who did not fail their extubation (controls) using the following criteria: age at surgery, sex, and type of congenital heart disease. Overall, 27/226 (11.3%) failed their first extubation. In the first analysis, before matching of cases and controls was made, we found association between EF and younger age (3.8 months vs 5 months; p = 0.003) and presence of coarctation of the aorta (p = 0.005). In the case-control univariate analysis, we found association between an increased cardiothoracic ratio (CTR) (p = 0.03; OR 5 (95% CI 1.6-16.7) for a CTR > 0.59) and marked hypotonia (27% vs 0%; p = 0.01) with the risk of EF. No differences were found in ventilatory management.

CONCLUSIONS

In pediatric patients with DS, EF after cardiac surgery is associated with younger age, presence of aortic coarctation, higher CTR reflecting the degree of cardiomegaly and hypotonia. Recognition of these factors may be helpful when planning extubation for these patients.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Extubation failure after cardiac surgery is associated with higher morbidity and mortality rates. Some studies report higher rates of extubation failure in patients with Down syndrome.

WHAT IS NEW

• In children with Down syndrome, extubation failure after cardiac surgery is associated with younger age, presence of aortic coarctation, higher CTR reflecting cardiomegaly and severe hypotonia.

Intraoperative Technical Performance Score Predicts Outcomes After Congenital Cardiac Surgery

BACKGROUND

The utility of the intraoperative technical performance score (IO-TPS) in predicting outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery remains unknown.

METHODS

Data from patients undergoing surgery for congenital heart disease from January 2011 to December 2019 at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. Intraoperative echocardiograms were used to assign IO-TPS for each index operation (class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua). The primary outcome was a composite of in-hospital mortality, transplant, unplanned reintervention in the anatomic area of repair, and new permanent pacemaker implantation. Secondary outcomes included postdischarge (late) mortality or transplant and unplanned reintervention. Associations between IO-TPS and outcomes were assessed using logistic (primary) and Cox or competing risk (secondary) models, adjusting for preoperative patient- and procedure-related covariates.

RESULTS

The primary outcome was observed in 784 (11.5%) of 6793 patients who met entry criteria. On multivariable analysis, IO-TPS was a significant predictor of the primary outcome (class 2: odds ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.4-2.0; P < .001]; class 3: odds ratio, 6.0 [95% CI, 4.0-8.9; P < .001]). Among 6661 transplant-free survivors of hospital discharge observed for up to 10.5 years, there were 185 (2.8%) deaths or transplants and 1171 (17.6%) reinterventions. Class 3 patients had a greater adjusted risk of late mortality or transplant (hazard ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2-4.2; P = .012) and late reintervention (subdistribution hazard ratio, 2.5; 95% CI, 1.8-3.3; P < .001) vs class 1 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

IO-TPS is significantly associated with adverse early and late outcomes after congenital heart surgery and may serve as an important adjunct for self-assessment and quality improvement.

Development of the Residual Lesion Score for congenital heart surgery: the RAND Delphi methodology

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

The Residual Lesion Score is a novel tool for assessing the achievement of surgical objectives in congenital heart surgery based on widely available clinical and echocardiographic characteristics. This article describes the methodology used to develop the Residual Lesion Score from the previously developed Technical Performance Score for five common congenital cardiac procedures using the RAND Delphi methodology.

METHODS

A panel of 11 experts from the field of paediatric and congenital cardiology and cardiac surgery, 2 co-chairs, and a consultant were assembled to review and comment on validity and feasibility of measuring the sub-components of intraoperative and discharge Residual Lesion Score for five congenital cardiac procedures. In the first email round, the panel reviewed and commented on the Residual Lesion Score and provided validity and feasibility scores for sub-components of each of the five procedures. In the second in-person round, email comments and scores were reviewed and the Residual Lesion Score revised. The modified Residual Lesion Score was scored independently by each panellist for validity and feasibility and used to develop the "final" Residual Lesion Score.

RESULTS

The Residual Lesion Score sub-components with a median validity score of ≥7 and median feasibility score of ≥4 that were scored without disagreement and with low absolute deviation from the median were included in the "final" Residual Lesion Score.

CONCLUSION

Using the RAND Delphi methodology, we were able to develop Residual Lesion Score modules for five important congenital cardiac procedures for the Pediatric Heart Network's Residual Lesion Score study.

Comparison of Intraoperative and Discharge Residual Lesion Severity in Congenital Heart Surgery

BACKGROUND

While the predischarge technical performance score (DC-TPS) is significantly associated with outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery, the utility of the intraoperative TPS (IO-TPS) remains unknown.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent congenital cardiac surgery from January 2011 to December 2019. Intraoperative and predischarge echocardiograms were used to assign IO-TPS and DC-TPS, respectively, for each index operation (class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua). Anatomic modules identifying the principal residual lesion were assigned to all class 2/3 patients. Overall and module-specific TPS comparisons were made. Multivariable regression models with IO-TPS and DC-TPS as separate predictors of postoperative outcomes were compared.

RESULTS

Of 6201 patients, overall agreement between IO-TPS and DC-TPS was observed in 4251 patients (68.6%); scores were likelier to be worse at discharge (P < .001). Paired comparative analyses revealed that among patients with at least class 2 atrioventricular and semilunar valve residua, IO-TPS was likelier to worsen than improve (both P < .001). Class 3 patients had a higher risk of in-hospital/early mortality (IO-TPS: odds ratio, 7.5; 95% CI, 2.4-23; DC-TPS: odds ratio, 6.6; 95% CI, 3.0-15), postdischarge/late mortality (IO-TPS: hazard ratio [HR], 3.1, 95% CI, 1.3-7.1; DC-TPS: HR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.2-4.4), and late unplanned reintervention (IO-TPS: HR, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.9-4.0; DC-TPS: HR, 3.4; 95% CI, 2.8-4.2) vs class 1 (all P < .05). IO- and DC-TPS models were equivalent fits for predicting early and late mortality; the latter was a marginally better fit for late reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

IO-TPS and DC-TPS are both important adjuncts for quality improvement in congenital cardiac surgery.

Long-Term Outcomes of Patients Requiring Unplanned Repeated Interventions After Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease

BACKGROUND

Unplanned catheter-based or surgical reinterventions after congenital heart operations are independently associated with operative mortality and increased postoperative length of stay.

OBJECTIVES

This study assessed the long-term outcomes of transplant-free survivors of hospital discharge requiring predischarge reinterventions after congenital cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Data from patients who required predischarge reinterventions in the anatomic area of repair after congenital cardiac surgery and survived to hospital discharge at a quaternary referral center from January 2011 to December 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. Previously published echocardiographic criteria were used to assess the severity of persistent residual lesions at discharge (Grade 1, no residua; Grade 2, minor residua; and Grade 3, major residua). Outcomes included postdischarge (late) mortality or transplant and unplanned reintervention. Associations between predischarge residual lesion severity and outcomes were assessed by using Cox or competing risk models, adjusting for baseline patient characteristics, case complexity, and preoperative risk factors.

RESULTS

Among the 408 patients who met entry criteria, there were 58 (14.2%) postdischarge deaths or transplants and 208 (51.0%) late reinterventions at a median follow-up of 3.0 years (IQR: 1.1-6.8 years). Greater predischarge residual lesion severity was associated with worse transplant-free survival and freedom from reintervention (both, P < 0.05). On multivariable analyses, Grade 3 patients had an increased risk of postdischarge mortality or transplant (HR: 4.8; 95% CI: 2.0-11; P < 0.001) and late reintervention (subdistribution HR: 2.1; 95% CI: 1.4-3.1; P < 0.001) vs Grade 1 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Among transplant-free survivors requiring predischarge reinterventions after congenital cardiac surgery, those with persistent major residua have significantly worse long-term outcomes. These high-risk patients warrant closer surveillance.

Translation and Validation of the Boston Technical Performance Score in a Developing Country

Introduction

The Technical Performance Score (TPS) was developed and subsequently refined at the Boston Children's Hospital. Our objective was to translate and validate its application in a developing country.

Methods

The score was translated into the Portuguese language and approved by the TPS authors. Subsequently, we studied 1,030 surgeries from June 2018 to October 2020. TPS could not be assigned in 58 surgeries, and these were excluded. Surgical risk score was evaluated using Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery (or RACHS-1). The impact of TPS on outcomes was studied using multivariable linear and logistic regression adjusting for important perioperative covariates.

Results

Median age and weight were 2.2 (interquartile range [IQR] = 0.5-13) years and 10.8 (IQR = 5.6-40) kilograms, respectively. In-hospital mortality was 6.58% (n=64), and postoperative complications occurred in 19.7% (n=192) of the cases. TPS was categorized as 1 in 359 cases (37%), 2 in 464 (47.7%), and 3 in 149 (15.3%). Multivariable analysis identified TPS class 3 as a predictor of longer hospital stay (coefficient: 6.6; standard error: 2.2; P=0.003), higher number of complications (odds ratio [OR]: 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.1-3; P=0.01), and higher mortality (OR: 3.2; 95% CI: 1.4-7; P=0.004).

Conclusion

TPS translated into the Portuguese language was validated and showed to be able to predict higher mortality, complication rate, and prolonged postoperative hospital stay in a high-volume Latin-American congenital heart surgery program. TPS is generalizable and can be used as an outcome assessment tool in resource diverse settings.

Hyperlactataemia as a predictor of adverse outcomes post-cardiac surgery in neonates with congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the discriminative ability of hyperlactataemia for early morbidity and mortality in neonates with CHD following cardiac surgery.

METHODS

Retrospective, observational study of neonates who underwent cardiac surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass at a tertiary care children's hospital from June 2015 to June 2019. The primary predictor was lactate. The primary composite outcome was defined as ≥1 of the following: cardiac arrest or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation within 72 hours or 30-day mortality post-operatively. The secondary outcome was the presence of major residual lesions, according to the Technical Performance Score.

RESULTS

Of 432 neonates, 28 (6.5%) sustained the composite outcome. On univariate analysis, peak lactate within 48 hours, increase in lactate from ICU admission through 12 hours, and single ventricle physiology were significantly associated with the composite outcome. The peak lactate occurred at a median of 2.9 hours (interquartile range: 1, 35) before the event. Through multi-variable analysis, a multi-variable risk algorithm was created. Predicted probabilities demonstrated an increasing risk based on single ventricle status and delta lactate, ranging from 1.8% (95% CI: 0.9, 3.9) to 52.4% (95% CI: 32.4, 71.7). The model had good discriminative ability for the composite outcome on receiver operating characteristic analysis (area under the curve = 0.79; 95% CI: 0.75, 0.89). Moreover, a peak lactate of 7.3 mmol/l or greater was significantly associated with the presence of a major residual lesion (odds ratios: 5.16, 95% CI: 3.01, 8.87).

CONCLUSIONS

We present a simple, two-variable model, including delta lactate in the immediate post-operative period and single ventricle status, to prognosticate the risk of early morbidity and mortality in neonates undergoing cardiac surgery for potential intervention.

Atrioventricular Valve Function Predicts Reintervention in Complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect

OBJECTIVE

Technical performance score (TPS) has been associated with both early and late outcomes across a wide range of congenital cardiac procedures. A previous study has shown that the presence of residual lesions before discharge, as measured by TPS, is accurately able to identify patients who required postdischarge reinterventions after complete atrioventricular septal defect (CAVSD) repair. The aim of this study is to determine which subcomponents of TPS best predict postdischarge reinterventions after CAVSD repair.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective review of patients with CAVSD after repair between January 2000 and March 2016. We assigned TPS (class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua or reintervention before discharge for residua) based on subcomponent scores from discharge echocardiograms. Outcome of interest was postdischarge reintervention.

RESULTS

Among 344 patients, median age was 3.2 months (interquartile range [IQR], 2.4-4.2). There were 34 (10%) postdischarge reinterventions. Median follow-up was 2.6 years (IQR, 0.09-7.9). Trisomy 21 and concomitant procedure were associated with postdischarge reinterventions. After adjusting for these factors, among the subcomponents, left atrioventricular valve stenosis and regurgitation, right atrioventricular valve regurgitation, residual ventricular septal defect, and abnormal conduction at discharge were significantly associated with postdischarge reinterventions.

CONCLUSIONS

We demonstrated the ability of TPS to predict postdischarge reinterventions in patients who underwent CAVSD repair. Residual left and right atrioventricular valve regurgitation and abnormal conduction at discharge were among the subcomponents strongly associated with postdischarge reinterventions. Thus, TPS may aid clinicians in identifying children at higher risk for reintervention.

Technical Performance Score: A Predictor of Outcomes After the Norwood Procedure

BACKGROUND

The Technical Performance Score (TPS) can predict outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery. We sought to validate TPS as a predictor of both short- and long-term outcomes of the Norwood procedure.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of patients who underwent the Norwood procedure from 1997 to 2017. We assigned TPS (class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua or reintervention for major residua before discharge) based on subcomponent scores from discharge echocardiograms or unplanned reinterventions, or both. Multivariable Cox or competing risk analysis, adjusted for preoperative patient- and procedure-related covariates, examined the association of TPS with postoperative hospital length of stay, transplant-free survival, and postdischarge reinterventions.

RESULTS

Among 500 patients, 319 (64%) were male, 54 (11%) were premature, 56 (11%) had noncardiac anomalies/syndromes, 146 (29%) had preoperative risk factors, and 480 (96%) were assigned TPS. On multivariable analysis, class 3 had greater hazard for reinterventions in transplant-free survivors (class 3: subdistribution hazard ratio [HR], 2.06; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34-3.16; P = .001) and was associated with increased hospital length of stay vs class 1 (HR, 0.25; 95% CI, 0.18-0.34; P < .001). Transplant-free survival after Norwood surgery was shorter for both class 2 (HR, 2.48; 95% CI, 1.68-3.66; P < .001) and class 3 (HR, 3.29; 95% CI, 2.18-4.95; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

TPS predicts early and late outcomes after Norwood. Absence of residual lesions results in improved long-term prognosis for single-ventricle patients. TPS may improve outcomes after Norwood by identifying patients warranting closer follow-up and potentially earlier reintervention.

Technical Performance Score's Association With Arterial Switch Operation Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Outcomes after the arterial switch operation (ASO) for dextro-transposition of the great arteries have improved significantly since its inception in the 1980s. This study reviews contemporaneous outcomes and predictors for late reinterventions after ASO.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent ASO for dextro-transposition of the great arteries from 1997 to 2017. Technical performance score (TPS) class (class 1, trivial or no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua or reintervention) was assigned at discharge based on echocardiographic evaluation of components of the ASO. Multivariable Cox regression identified patient- and procedure-specific factors associated with postdischarge reinterventions.

RESULTS

Among 598 patients, 410 (69%) underwent ASO and 188 (31%) underwent ASO with ventricular septal defect repair. Median age at surgery was 5 days (interquartile range, 3 to 7); median follow-up time was 8.2 years; 408 (68%) were male; 50 (8.3%) were premature; and 10 (1.7%) had noncardiac anomalies or syndromes. Survival to hospital discharge was 98% (n = 591). Among 349 patients with follow-up, freedom from unplanned reintervent2ion at 5 years was 99% for TPS class 1, compared with 84% for class 2 and 30% for class 3. On multivariable Cox regression, classes 2 and 3 had significantly higher hazard for reintervention (class 2 hazard ratio 10.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.5 to 44.2; P = .001; class 3 hazard ratio 58.2, 95% confidence interval, 13.1 to 259; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

At our center, ASO was associated with relatively low mortality. Class 2 and class 3 TPS were the most important independent predictors of reinterventions after discharge. Therefore, TPS can serve as a tool for identifying high-risk patients who warrant closer follow-up.

The Impact of Post-Graduate Year of Primary Surgeon on Technical Performance Score in Tetralogy of Fallot Repair

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of surgeon years of experience on clinical outcomes of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) repair using technical performance score (TPS), and to investigate the possibility of safe operations by surgical trainees.Methods and Results:We assessed the cases of 159 consecutive patients who underwent TOF repair between 2001 and 2015. Thirteen different primary surgeons performed operations with 41 different first assistants. The primary surgeon and first assistant mean postgraduate years were 19.1±5.1 years (range, 5.7-31.6 years) and 11.2±6.3 years (range, 3.2-36.3 years), respectively. TPS was assigned using pre-discharge echocardiography based on original criteria. Logistic regression analysis was used to examine the factors associated with TPS. TPS could be scored for all patients, 16 of whom were graded as having optimal (10%), 119 as adequate (75%), and 24 as having inadequate (15%) TPS. None of the preoperative and perioperative variables affected TPS. Although neither the primary surgeon nor the first assistant postgraduate years was associated with TPS independently, total primary surgeon and first assistant postgraduate years correlated with TPS (OR, 1.07; 95% CI: 1.01-1.13, P=0.031).

CONCLUSIONS

Primary surgeon postgraduate years was not associated with TPS for TOF repair. TOF repair can be performed adequately and safely by surgical trainees under the support of highly experienced supervisors.

Technical Performance Score Predicts Perioperative Outcomes in Complex Congenital Heart Surgery Performed in a Small-to-Medium-Volume Program

As the quality of surgical outcomes depend on many factors, the development of validated tools to assess the different aspects of complex multidisciplinary teams' performance is crucial. The Technical Performance Score (TPS) has only been validated to correlate with outcomes in large-volume surgical programs. Here we assess the utility of TPS in correlation to perioperative outcomes for complex congenital heart surgeries (CHS) performed in a small-to-medium-volume program. 673 patients underwent CHS from 4/2012 to 12/2017 at our institution. Of those, 122 were STAT 4 and STAT 5. TPS was determined for each STAT 4 and STAT 5 operation using discharge echocardiogram: 1 = optimal, 2 = adequate, 3 = inadequate. Patient outcomes were compared including mortality, length of stay, ventilation times, and adverse events. 69 patients (57%) were neonates, 32 (26%) were infants, 17 (14%) were children, 4 (3%) were adults. TPS class 1 was assigned to 85 (70%) operations, TPS class 2 was assigned to 25 (20%) operations, and TPS class 3 was assigned to 12 (10%) operations. TPS was associated with re-intubation, ICU length of stay, postoperative length of stay, and mortality. TPS did not correlate with unplanned 30-day readmissions, need for reoperation, and inotropic score. Technical performance score was associated with perioperative outcomes and is a useful tool to assess the adequacy of repair for high complexity CHS in a small-to-medium-volume surgical program. TPS should be a part of program review in congenital heart programs of all sizes to identify strategies that may reduce postoperative morbidity and potentially improve long-term outcomes.

The Pediatric Heart Network Residual Lesion Score Study: Design and objectives

OBJECTIVES

The Residual Lesion Score (RLS) was developed as a novel tool for assessing residual lesions after congenital heart operations based on widely available clinical and echocardiographic characteristics. The RLS ranks postoperative findings as follows: Class 1 (no/trivial residua), Class 2 (minor residua), or Class 3 (major residua or reintervention before discharge for residua). The multicenter prospective RLS study aims to analyze the influence of residual lesions on outcomes in common congenital cardiac operations. We hypothesize that RLS will predict postoperative adverse events, resource utilization, mortality, and reinterventions by 1 year postoperatively.

METHODS

The study cohort consisted of infants aged ≤12 months undergoing definitive surgery for complete atrioventricular septal defect, tetralogy of Fallot, dextro-transposition of the great arteries with or without intact ventricular septum, single ventricle (Norwood procedure), and coarctation or interrupted/hypoplastic arch with ventricular septal defect. Children with major congenital or acquired extracardiac anomalies that could independently affect the primary end point, which was number of days alive and out of the hospital within 30 days of surgery (60 days for Norwood procedure), were excluded. Secondary outcomes included ≥1 early major postoperative adverse event; days of intensive care unit and hospital stay, and initial and total ventilator time; mortality/transplant after discharge; unplanned reinterventions after discharge; and cost. All analyses will be performed separately by surgical operation.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first multicenter prospective validation of a tool for surgical outcome assessment and quality improvement specific to congenital heart surgery.

The Congenital Heart Technical Skill Study: Rationale and Design

BACKGROUND

We report the rationale and design for a peer-evaluation protocol of attending congenital heart surgeon technical skill using direct video observation.

METHODS

All surgeons contributing data to The Society of Thoracic Surgeons-Congenital Heart Surgery Database (STS-CHSD) are invited to submit videos of themselves operating, to rate peers, or both. Surgeons may submit Norwood procedures, complete atrioventricular canal repairs, and/or arterial switch operations. A HIPPA-compliant website allows secure transmission/evaluation. Videos are anonymously rated using a modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills score. Ratings are linked to five years of contemporaneous outcome data from the STS-CHSD and surgeon questionnaires. The primary outcome is a composite for major morbidity/mortality.

RESULTS

Two hundred seventy-six surgeons from 113 centers are eligible for participation: 83 (30%) surgeons from 53 (45%) centers have agreed to participate, with recruitment ongoing. These surgeons vary considerably in years of experience and outcomes. Participants, both early and late in their careers, describe the process as "very rewarding" and "less time consuming than anticipated." An initial subset of 10 videos demonstrated excellent interrater reliability (interclass correlation = 0.85).

CONCLUSIONS

This study proposes to evaluate the technical skills of attending pediatric cardiothoracic surgeons by video observation and peer-review. It is notable that over a quarter of congenital heart surgeons, across a range of experiences, from almost half of United States centers have already agreed to participate. This study also creates a mechanism for peer feedback; we hypothesize that feedback could yield broad and meaningful quality improvement.

Technical performance scores are predictors of midterm mortality and reinterventions following congenital mitral valve repair

OBJECTIVES

The Technical Performance Score (TPS) has been shown to be predictive of postoperative mortality, morbidities and reinterventions following various cardiac procedures in children. We hypothesized that TPS is also a predictor of mitral valve repair outcomes.

METHODS

A review of patients who underwent mitral valve repair from January 2000 to December 2013 was performed. Primary repair of complete atrioventricular defect was excluded. The scores were determined according to previously published criteria based on the need for reintervention and predischarge echocardiograms: Class 1 (no residua), Class 2 (minor residua) or Class 3 (pacemaker implantation, major residua or reintervention for major residua prior to discharge). Cox proportional hazard models and Kaplan-Meier estimator were used.

RESULTS

A total of 587 patients underwent mitral repair (median age 2.6 years). Median follow-up duration was 3 years. There were 125 (21.3%) post-discharge mitral reinterventions and freedom from reintervention was 85.2%, 78.2% and 69.4% at 1, 2 and 5 years, respectively. Both TPS Class 2 [hazard ratio (HR) 3.6, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-10.0; P  = 0.02] and Class 3 (HR 8.7, 95% CI 3.0-25.1; P  < 0.001) were associated with post-discharge reinterventions. There were 31 late deaths/transplantations, and transplant-free survival at 1, 2 and 5 years was 97.8%, 95.3% and 93.2%. TPS 3 was associated with decreased post-discharge transplant-free survival (HR 5.5, 95% CI 1.2-25.0; P  = 0.03). Post-discharge mitral reintervention was not associated with increased mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

The TPS is a strong predictor of midterm mortality and post-discharge mitral reintervention in congenital patients who underwent mitral repair.

Technical Performance Score Predicts Partial/Transitional Atrioventricular Septal Defect Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Repair of partial or transitional atrioventricular septal defects (P/TAVSDs) has excellent outcomes; however, late reinterventions remain a concern. Technical performance score (TPS) measures residua after repair and has been associated with early/mid-term outcomes after congenital cardiac operation. Our study investigates TPS as a predictor of outcomes after P/TAVSD repair.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective review of P/TAVSD repair from July 2000 to November 2015. Intraoperative and discharge TPS were assigned based on echocardiographic criteria: class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; and class 3, major residua or reintervention for major residua. Intensive care unit (ICU) hospital length of stay and reintervention after discharge were analyzed with Cox regression.

RESULTS

In our cohort, 124 partial (68%) and 59 transitional (32%) AVSDs underwent repair. Median age was 1.5 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 0.6 to 3.8 years), median weight was 9.7 kg (IQR: 6.6 to 14.1 kg), and 96 (52%) were female. Twenty patients (11%) required reintervention after discharge. On multivariable modeling, patients with TPS class 3 spent more days in the ICU (hazard ratio [HR] 0.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.19 to 0.58, p < 0.001) and hospital (HR 0.33, 95% CI: 0.19 to 0.57, p < 0.001) and had shorter time to reintervention after discharge (HR 8.76, 95% CI: 1.03 to 74.7, p = 0.047).

CONCLUSIONS

Major residua, that is TPS class 3, were a predictor of in-hospital outcomes and unplanned reinterventions after discharge, with left atrioventricular valve regurgitation being the strongest predictor. Use of TPS as a tool for residual lesions may identify patients predisposed to prolonged ICU hospital stay and reinterventions after discharge, providing feedback on areas in need of improvement in technique and identification of patients who warrant closer follow-up.

Technical Performance Score: Predictor of Outcomes in Complete Atrioventricular Septal Defect Repair

BACKGROUND

Technical performance score (TPS) has been associated with both early and late outcomes across a wide range of congenital cardiac procedures. We sought to validate TPS as predictor of outcomes for complete atrioventricular septal defect (CAVSD) repair.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective review of patients after balanced CAVSD repair between January 1, 2000, and March 1, 2016. We assigned TPS (class 1, no residua; class 2, minor residua; class 3, major residua or reintervention before discharge for residua) based on summation of subcomponent scores from discharge echocardiograms. Outcomes of interest were in-hospital complications, postoperative days on ventilator, and postdischarge reintervention.

RESULTS

Among 350 patients, median age was 3.2 months (interquartile range [IQR], 2.4 to 4.2 months). Fifty-four patients (16%) had class 1 TPS, 218 (62%) class 2, 63 (18%) class 3, and 15 (4%) were unscorable. There were 36 complications (10%), and median postoperative days on ventilator were 2 (IQR, 1 to 3) days. There were 34 postdischarge reinterventions (10%). Median follow-up was 2.6 years (IQR, 0.09 to 7.9) years. On multivariable modeling, class 3 TPS was associated with complications (odds ratio 5.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.06 to 28.1, p = 0.04), prolonged postoperative ventilator days (hazard ratio [HR] 0.54, 95% CI: 0.37 to 0.80, p = 0.002), and postdischarge reintervention (HR 5.61, 95% CI: 1.28 to 24.5, p = 0.02) after adjusting for covariates such as age, weight, genetic abnormality, concomitant procedure, prematurity, and second bypass run.

CONCLUSIONS

At our center, CAVSD repair was associated with low morbidity. TPS may identify patients with complications, prolonged days on ventilator, and who require postdischarge reinterventions; thus, it provides feedback on areas of improvement and allows identification of patients who warrant closer follow-up.

Role of human factors in pediatric cardiac surgery

According to the Institute of Healthcare Improvement, “human factors” refers to the discipline of engineering that details the interface of people, equipment and the environment in which they work. Issues that impact human performance and increase the risk of error include factors that directly enable decision making, such as perception, attention, memory, reasoning, judgement and factors that directly enable decision execution, such as communication and the ability to carry out the intended action. 

Optimal Timing for Elective Early Primary Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot: Analysis of Intermediate Term Outcomes

BACKGROUND

We have previously demonstrated that early primary repair of tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary stenosis (TOF) can be safely performed without increase in hospital resource utilization or compromise to surgical technical performance scores (TPS). We sought to identify the optimal timing for elective early primary repair of TOF with respect to intermediate-term reintervention.

METHODS

Retrospective review of all patients with TOF undergoing elective primary repair between September 2004 and December 2013 was performed. Patients were stratified into reintervention group or no reintervention group. Multivariable Cox regression analysis identified independent predictors of reintervention. Youden's J-index in receiver operating characteristic analysis identified optimal age cutoff predictive of reintervention. Kaplan-Meier analysis with the log-rank test compared reintervention rates stratified by age and TPS.

RESULTS

A total of 129 patients with median (interquartile range) age and weight of 78 days (56 to 111) and 5 kg (4.1 to 5.7), respectively, underwent primary repair. After a median (interquartile range) follow-up of 2.3 years (0.1 to 4.6), 18 patients (14%) required a total of 22 reinterventions. Youden's J-index revealed significantly lower risk of intermediate-term reintervention when repaired after 55 days of age (8% for >55 days old versus 31% for ≤55 days of age). Multivariable Cox regression identified age 55 days and younger (hazard ratio [HR] 4.5, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.6 to 12.8, p = 0.004), valve sparing repair (HR 15.3, 95% CI 1.8 to 128.5, p < 0.001), residual right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient (HR 1.11, 95% CI 1.1 to 1.2, p < 0.001), and inadequate TPS (HR 21.5, 95% CI 7.4 to 63, p < 0.001) as independent predictors of overall intermediate-term reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Elective repair in patients greater than 55 days of age, irrespective of size of the patient, can be safely performed without any increase in reintervention rates. Both residual peak RVOT gradient and TPS are effective in identifying patients at increased risk of reintervention.

Influence of Age and Weight on Technical Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

BACKGROUND

We have previously shown that early primary repair of tetralogy of Fallot can be performed without increased morbidity or resource utilization. The technical performance score (TPS) is a self-assessment tool used to identify patients at risk of poor postoperative outcomes. We hypothesized that adequate technical repair can be obtained regardless of the patient's preoperative age or size.

METHODS

A retrospective review of all tetralogy of Fallot patients repaired between September 2004 and December 2013 was performed. The postoperative predischarge echocardiogram was reviewed to assign a TPS rating of optimal, adequate, or inadequate. The TPS groups were compared by univariate analysis using the Kruskal-Wallis test for continuous variables and χ(2) analysis for categoric variables. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of inadequate TPS.

RESULTS

Among 167 patients (1 operative mortality), TPS was optimal in 88, adequate in 62, and inadequate in 17. Patients with worse TPS had longer ventilation time (p = 0.031), hospital length of stay (p = 0.036), and higher hospital charges (p = 0.005). Multivariable regression analysis revealed discontinuous branch pulmonary arteries (odds ratio 18.24, 95% confidence interval: 1.42 to 234, p = 0.015) as the only independent predictor of inadequate TPS. Younger age at repair (p = 0.245) and smaller weight (p = 0.260) were not associated with inadequate TPS.

CONCLUSIONS

Technical adequacy of tetralogy of Fallot repair is affected by anatomic subsets (discontinuous branch pulmonary arteries) and not by the patient's age or size. Worse TPS is associated with higher postoperative morbidity and hospital charges. Younger age and size should not be a deterrent for early primary repair.

Surgical Quality Predicts Length of Stay in Patients with Congenital Heart Disease

Historically, the primary marker of quality for congenital cardiac surgery has been postoperative mortality. The purpose of this study was to determine whether additional markers (10 surgical metrics) independently predict length of stay (LOS), thereby providing specific targets for quality improvement. Ten metrics (unplanned ECMO, unplanned cardiac catheterization, revision of primary repair, delayed closure, mediastinitis, reexploration for bleeding, complete heart block, vocal cord paralysis, diaphragm paralysis, and change in preoperative diagnosis) were defined in 2008 and subsequently collected from 1024 consecutive index congenital cardiac cases, yielding 990 cases. Four patient characteristics and 22 case characteristics were used for risk adjustment. Univariate and multivariable analyses were used to determine independent associations between each metric and postoperative LOS. Increased LOS was independently associated with revision of the primary repair (p = 0.014), postoperative complete heart block requiring a permanent pacemaker (p = 0.001), diaphragm paralysis requiring plication (p < 0.001), and unplanned postoperative cardiac catheterization (p < 0.001). Compared with patients without each metric, LOS was 1.6 (95 % CI 1.1-2.2, p = 0.014), 1.7 (95 % CI 1.2-2.3, p = 0.001), 1.8 (95 % CI 1.4-2.3, p < 0.001), and 2.0 (95 % CI 1.7-2.4, p < 0.001) times as long, respectively. These effects equated to an additional 4.5-7.8 days in hospital, depending on the metric. The other 6 metrics were not independently associated with increased LOS. The quality of surgery during repair of congenital heart disease affects outcomes. Reducing the incidence of these 4 specific surgical metrics may significantly decrease LOS in this population.

Impact of Variability in Echocardiographic Interpretation on Assessment of Adequacy of Repair Following Congenital Heart Surgery: A Pilot Study

Technical Performance Score (TPS) is based largely on the presence and magnitude of residual lesions on postoperative echocardiograms; this score correlates with outcomes following repair of congenital heart defects. We evaluated reader variability for echocardiographic components of TPS for complete repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and arterial switch operation (ASO) in two centers and measured its effect on TPS. Postoperative echocardiograms were evaluated in 67 children (39 TOF and 28 ASO). Two readers (one per center) interpreted each echocardiogram. Reader variability in image quality assessments and measurements was compared using weighted kappa (κ), percent agreement, and intra-class correlation. TPS class (1 optimal-no residua, 2 adequate-minor residua, 3 inadequate-major residua) was assigned for each echocardiographic review by an independent investigator. The effect of reader interpretation variability on TPS classification was measured. There was strong agreement for TPS between the two readers (κ = 0.88). The readers were concordant for TPS classes for 57 children (85%) and discordant for classes 2 (minor residua) versus 3 (major residua) in six (9%). Coronary arteries and branch pulmonary arteries were frequently suboptimally visualized. Although inter-reader agreement for TPS was strong, inter-reader variation in echocardiographic interpretations had a small, but important effect on TPS for TOF and ASO, particularly for the distinction between minor and major residua. Further studies of generalizability and reproducibility of TPS and refinement of scoring modules may be needed before it can be used as a tool to assess pediatric cardiac surgical performance and outcomes.

Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular Tei index in congenital heart disease

BACKGROUND

Use of the Tei index has not been described to assess myocardial function before or after surgery in pediatric patients. This study was designed to evaluate the left ventricular (LV) function using the Tei index pre- and post-cardiopulmonary bypass in patients with lesion that result in a volume loaded right ventricle (RV).

METHODS

Retrospective data on 55 patients who underwent repair of a cardiac defect were analyzed. Patients with volume overload RV (n = 15) were compared to patients without volume overload but with other cardiac defects (n = 40). We reviewed pre- and post-operative LV myocardial performance index (Tei index). Tei index was obtained from transesophageal Doppler echocardiogram.

RESULTS

Patients with right heart volume overload, the mean preoperative Tei index was 0.6, with a postoperative mean decrease of 0.207 (P = 0.014). Patients without right heart volume overload, the mean preoperative Tei was 0.48 with no significant postoperative change (P = 0.82).

CONCLUSION

Pre- and post-operative transesophageal echocardiogram assessment provides an easy and quick way of evaluating LV function intra-operatively using LV Tei index. Preoperative LV Tei index was greater in the RV volume overload defects indicating diminished LV global function. This normalized in the immediate postoperative period, implying an immediate improvement in LV function. In patients without right heart volume load, consist of other cardiac defects, demonstrated no changes in the pre- and post-operative LV Tei. This implies that LV function was similar after the surgery.

Association of blood products administration during cardiopulmonary bypass and excessive post-operative bleeding in pediatric cardiac surgery

Our objectives were to study risk factors and post-operative outcomes associated with excessive post-operative bleeding in pediatric cardiac surgeries performed using cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) support. A retrospective observational study was undertaken, and all consecutive pediatric heart surgeries over 1 year period were studied. Excessive post-operative bleeding was defined as 10 ml/kg/h of chest tube output for 1 h or 5 ml/kg/h for three consecutive hours in the first 12 h of pediatric cardiac intensive care unit (PCICU) stay. Risk factors including demographics, complexity of cardiac defect, CPB parameters, hematological studies, and post-operative morbidity and mortality were evaluated for excessive bleeding. 253 patients were studied, and 107 (42 %) met the criteria for excessive bleeding. Bayesian model averaging revealed that greater volume of blood products transfusion during CPB was significantly associated with excessive bleeding. Multiple logistic regression analysis of blood products transfusion revealed that increased volume of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) administration for CPB prime and during CPB was significantly associated with excessive bleeding (p = 0.028 and p = 0.0012, respectively). Proportional odds logistic regression revealed that excessive bleeding was associated with greater time to achieve negative fluid balance, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and duration of PCICU stay (p < 0.001) after adjusting for multiple parameters. A greater volume of blood products administration, especially PRBCs transfusion for CPB prime, and during the CPB period is associated with excessive post-operative bleeding. Excessive bleeding is associated with worse post-operative outcomes.

A method to account for variation in congenital heart surgery charges

BACKGROUND

In response to societal pressure to reduce expenditures and increase quality, we sought to develop a methodology to predict hospital charges related to congenital heart surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing congenital heart surgery at Boston Children's Hospital in fiscal years 2007 to 2009 comprised the derivation cohort. Clinical data, including Current Procedural Terminology coding of the primary surgical intervention, were collected prospectively and linked to total hospital charges for an episode of care. Surgical charge categories were developed to group surgical procedure types using empiric data and expert consensus. A multivariable model was built using surgical charge categories and additional patient and procedural characteristics to predict the outcome, total hospital charges. A contemporary cohort for fiscal years 2010 to 2012 was used to validate surgical charge categories and the multivariable model.

RESULTS

In the derivation cohort, 2,105 cases met inclusion criteria. One hundred three surgical procedure types were categorized into seven surgical charge categories, yielding a grouper variable with an R(2) explanatory value of 47.3%. Explanatory value increased with consideration of patient age, admission status, and preoperative ventilator dependence (R(2) = 59.4%), as well as weight category, noncardiac abnormality, and genetic syndrome other than trisomy 21 (R(2) = 61.5%). Additional variability in charge was explained when extracorporeal membrane oxygenation utilization and greater than one operating room visit during the episode of care were added (R(2) = 74.3%). The contemporary cohort yielded an R(2) explanatory value of 67.7%.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of clinical data with resource utilization information resulted in a statistically valid predictive model for total hospital charges in congenital heart surgery.

Technical performance score as predictor for post-discharge reintervention in valve-sparing tetralogy of Fallot repair

Recognition of late problems following repair of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) with a transannular patch has stimulated modifications to preserve pulmonary valve (PV) function. This study assesses the ability of technical performance score (TPS) to determine the need for post-discharge reinterventions (RIs) in valve-sparing TOF repair. We retrospectively reviewed 157 patients following valve-sparing repair of TOF from 2007-2012. We assigned TPS as Class 1 (optimal), Class 2 (adequate), or Class 3 (inadequate) based on discharge echo and clinical criteria. Preoperative, discharge, and follow-up PV Z scores and post-discharge RIs were documented. Reasons for Class 2 or 3 designation were right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) gradient in 52, pulmonary regurgitation in 13, residual ventricular septal defects in 7, both RVOT gradient and ventricular septal defects in 13, and both RVOT gradient and pulmonary regurgitation in 37 patients. Median follow-up was 19.6 (range: 0.1-86.1) months. Class 3 patients had a significantly longer median intensive care unit and hospital stay compared with Class 1 (3 vs 2 days [P = 0.015] and 7 vs 5 days [P < 0.001], respectively). Post-discharge RIs were significantly lower in Class 1 vs Class 2 and Class 3 (P = 0.003). Class 1 patients had significantly larger PV Z scores compared with Class 2 or Class 3 patients (P < 0.001). TPS is associated with post-discharge RI rate after valve-sparing TOF repair. Preoperative PV Z score is highly correlated with Class I TPS. Patient selection based on preoperative PV Z scores may help determine if valve-sparing approach is appropriate, thus minimizing the need for RIs.

Technical performance score is associated with outcomes after the Norwood procedure

OBJECTIVES

The technical performance score (TPS) has been reported in a single center study to predict the outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery. We sought to determine the association of the TPS with outcomes in patients undergoing the Norwood procedure in the Single Ventricle Reconstruction trial.

METHODS

We calculated the TPS (class 1, optimal; class 2, adequate; class 3, inadequate) according to the predischarge echocardiograms analyzed in a core laboratory and unplanned reinterventions that occurred before discharge from the Norwood hospitalization. Multivariable regression examined the association of the TPS with interval to first extubation, Norwood length of stay, death or transplantation, unplanned postdischarge reinterventions, and neurodevelopment at 14 months old.

RESULTS

Of 549 patients undergoing a Norwood procedure, 356 (65%) had an echocardiogram adequate to assess atrial septal restriction or arch obstruction or an unplanned reintervention, enabling calculation of the TPS. On multivariable regression, adjusting for preoperative variables, a better TPS was an independent predictor of a shorter interval to first extubation (P=.019), better transplant-free survival before Norwood discharge (P<.001; odds ratio, 9.1 for inadequate vs optimal), shorter hospital length of stay (P<.001), fewer unplanned reinterventions between Norwood discharge and stage II (P=.004), and a higher Bayley II psychomotor development index at 14 months (P=.031). The TPS was not associated with transplant-free survival after Norwood discharge, unplanned reinterventions after stage II, or the Bayley II mental development index at 14 months.

CONCLUSIONS

TPS is an independent predictor of important outcomes after Norwood and could serve as a tool for quality improvement.

D-transposition of the great arteries: the current era of the arterial switch operation

This paper aims to update clinicians on "hot topics" in the management of patients with D-loop transposition of the great arteries (D-TGA) in the current surgical era. The arterial switch operation (ASO) has replaced atrial switch procedures for D-TGA, and 90% of patients now reach adulthood. The Adult Congenital and Pediatric Cardiology Council of the American College of Cardiology assembled a team of experts to summarize current knowledge on genetics, pre-natal diagnosis, surgical timing, balloon atrial septostomy, prostaglandin E1 therapy, intraoperative techniques, imaging, coronary obstruction, arrhythmias, sudden death, neoaortic regurgitation and dilation, neurodevelopmental (ND) issues, and lifelong care of D-TGA patients. In simple D-TGA: 1) familial recurrence risk is low; 2) children diagnosed pre-natally have improved cognitive skills compared with those diagnosed post-natally; 3) echocardiography helps to identify risk factors; 4) routine use of BAS and prostaglandin E1 may not be indicated in all cases; 5) early ASO improves outcomes and reduces costs with a low mortality; 6) single or intramural coronary arteries remain risk factors; 7) post-ASO arrhythmias and cardiac dysfunction should raise suspicion of coronary insufficiency; 8) coronary insufficiency and arrhythmias are rare but are associated with sudden death; 9) early- and late-onset ND abnormalities are common; 10) aortic regurgitation and aortic root dilation are well tolerated; and 11) the aging ASO patient may benefit from "exercise-prescription" rather than restriction. Significant strides have been made in understanding risk factors for cardiac, ND, and other important clinical outcomes after ASO.

Outcomes differ in patients who undergo immediate intraoperative revision versus patients with delayed postoperative revision of residual lesions in congenital heart operations

OBJECTIVES

In a previous study of infants less than 6 month old, we found that delayed revision of residual lesions resulted in worse patient outcomes compared with intraoperative revision. We explored a larger cohort to determine if this finding persisted.

METHODS

A prospective cohort followed from index surgery to discharge from January 2011 to September 2013 were divided into 4 groups: (1) intraoperative revisions (IO) of residual lesions, (2) delayed postoperative revision (PO) of residual lesions during the same hospital stay, (3) both intraoperative and delayed (BOTH) revision of residual lesions, (4) no intraoperative or postoperative revision (NO). Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to compare outcomes of postoperative hospital length of stay, postoperative adverse events (AE), hospital costs, and mortality, after adjusting for age, prematurity, presence of extracardiac anomalies, and RACHS-1 (Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1) risk category known to affect outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 2427 patients discharged after a congenital cardiac operation, 1886 were eligible for this study after exclusion of adults, procedures performed off cardiopulmonary bypass, and transplants and assist devices. On multivariable modeling adjusting for other significant patient factors, the NO group fared better than the other 3 groups. The IO group had significantly lower postoperative length of stay, AE rate, and hospital costs compared with the PO and BOTH groups, but showed no significant differences in mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative correction of residual lesions results in shorter length of stay, and lower postoperative AE and costs compared with delayed postoperative revision of residual lesions.

Surgical volume-to-outcome relationship and monitoring of technical performance in pediatric cardiac surgery

A significant inverse relationship of surgical institutional and surgeon volumes to outcome has been demonstrated in many high-stakes surgical specialties. By and large, the same results were found in pediatric cardiac surgery, for which a more thorough analysis has shown that this relationship depends on case complexity and type of surgical procedures. Lower-volume programs tend to underperform larger-volume programs as case complexity increases. High-volume pediatric cardiac surgeons also tend to have better results than low-volume surgeons, especially at the more complex end of the surgery spectrum (e.g., the Norwood procedure). Nevertheless, this trend for lower mortality rates at larger centers is not universal. All larger programs do not perform better than all smaller programs. Moreover, surgical volume seems to account for only a small proportion of the overall between-center variation in outcome. Intraoperative technical performance is one of the most important parts, if not the most important part, of the therapeutic process and a critical component of postoperative outcome. Thus, the use of center-specific, risk-adjusted outcome as a tool for quality assessment together with monitoring of technical performance using a specific score may be more reliable than relying on volume alone. However, the relationship between surgical volume and outcome in pediatric cardiac surgery is strong enough that it ought to support adapted and well-balanced health care strategies that take advantage of the positive influence that higher center and surgeon volumes have on outcome.

The impact of procedural sedation on diagnostic errors in pediatric echocardiography

BACKGROUND

Infants and young children frequently have difficulty remaining still for an echocardiographic examination, potentially leading to poor study quality, increasing the likelihood of diagnostic errors. Sedation is believed to improve echocardiographic quality, but its effectiveness has not been demonstrated. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that sedation would improve study quality and reduce diagnostic errors.

METHODS

Outpatient echocardiograms from children aged ≤36 months obtained from January 2008 to June 2009 were examined. Variables related to image quality, report completeness, and sedation use were collected. Diagnostic errors were identified and categorized. Multivariate analysis identified the odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for risk factors for potentially preventable diagnostic errors and the impact of sedation on these errors.

RESULTS

Among 2,003 echocardiographic examinations, sedation was used in 498 (25%). The overall diagnostic error rate was 6.5%. Most errors (66%) were potentially preventable. Multivariate analysis identified the following risk factors for potentially preventable errors: precardiac procedure (OR, 2.19; 95% CI, 1.05-4.59; P = .04), moderate anatomic complexity (OR, 3.91; 95% CI, 2.25-6.81; P < .001), and high anatomic complexity (OR, 8.36; 95% CI, 3.57-19.6; P < .001). Sedation was independently associated with lower odds of potentially preventable diagnostic errors (OR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.27-0.80; P = .006). Echocardiographic examinations with sedation had fewer image quality concerns (22% vs 60%) and fewer incomplete reports (3% vs 20%) (P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Most echocardiographic diagnostic errors among infants and young children are potentially preventable. Sedation is associated with a lower likelihood of these diagnostic errors, fewer imaging quality concerns, and fewer incomplete reports.

New concepts in predicting, evaluating, and managing neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with congenital heart disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Over the last two decades advances in congenital heart surgery, pediatric cardiology, and pediatric intensive care have dramatically increased the survival of infants with critical congenital heart disease (CHD). Survivors often experience neurodevelopmental deficits and behavioral and emotional problems. These complications often have a profound impact on quality of life in this high-risk population. This review will focus on the most significant and innovative studies that have been published over the last 18 months that focus on predicting, evaluating, and managing neurodevelopmental outcomes in children with CHD.

RECENT FINDINGS

Recent reports demonstrate new potential predictors of worse neurodevelopmental outcome, including abnormal fetal cerebrovascular resistance, brain biomarkers, and abnormalities in electroencephalogram (EEG) during the perioperative period, and new stratification schemata. In addition, a new evidence-based scientific statement from the American Heart Association (AHA) and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) describing how to evaluate and manage neurodevelopmental outcomes in children and adolescents with CHD and novel interventions to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes will be reviewed.

SUMMARY

The literature reviewed reveals new intervention opportunities to improve neurodevelopmental outcome in the fetus (cerebrovascular resistance), during the perioperative period (brain biomarkers and EEG), and through the utilization of new stratification schemata. The new AHA/AAP guidelines on the evaluation and management of neurodevelopmental outcomes create the opportunity to identify and treat a significant population of survivors with neurodevelopmental deficits with novel interventions.

Association between Technical Performance Scores and neurodevelopmental outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery

OBJECTIVES

Technical Performance Score (TPS) has been shown to have a strong association with early and late outcomes after congenital cardiac surgery, with greater morbidity and reintervention in children with major residual lesions (TPS class 3). We sought to explore the effect of TPS on the neurodevelopmental outcomes.

METHODS

All infants undergoing cardiac surgery, excluding those with trisomy 21, were offered neurodevelopmental testing at 1 year of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant Development, 3rd edition. TPSs from the discharge echocardiograms were graded as class 1 (optimal), class 2 (minor residual), or class 3 (major residual). Multivariate regression analysis was performed using patient characteristics and preoperative variables.

RESULTS

Neurodevelopmental testing was performed in 140 patients at a median age of 16 months. Of these, 28 (20%) had single ventricle palliation; 39 (28%) were in Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery category 4 to 6. Significant differences between the groups were found in the cognitive (P = .01) and motor (P = .05) domains, with subjects in TPS class 3 having significantly lower cognitive and motor composite scores. The scores did not vary significantly according to single ventricle versus biventricular repair or Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery categorization. In multivariate modeling, class 3 TPS remained significantly associated with a lower Bayley cognitive score (P = .02), with a trend toward a lower Bayley motor score (P = .08).

CONCLUSIONS

We found that TPS is an independent predictor of neurodevelopmental outcomes after infant heart surgery. Future research should explore whether a structured program of intraoperative recognition and intervention on residual lesions can improve the TPS and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Building quality indicators to improve care for adults with congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVES

This study sought to develop quality indicators (QIs) for outpatient management of adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients.

BACKGROUND

There are no published QIs to promote quality measurement and improvement for ACHD patients.

METHODS

Working groups of ACHD experts reviewed published data and United States, Canadian, and European guidelines to identify candidate QIs. For each QI, we specified a numerator, denominator, period of assessment, and data source. We submitted the QIs to a 9-member panel of international ACHD experts. The panel rated the QIs for validity and feasibility in 2 rounds on a scale of 1 to 9 using the RAND/University of California-Los Angeles modified-Delphi method, and final QI selection was on the basis of median scores.

RESULTS

A total of 62 QIs were identified regarding appropriateness and timing of clinical management, testing, and test interpretation. Each QI was ascertainable from health records. After the first round of rating, 29 QIs were accepted, none were rejected, and 33 were equivocal; on the second round, 55 QIs were accepted. Final QIs included: 8 for atrial septal defects; 9 for aortic coarctation; 12 for Eisenmenger; 9 for Fontan; 9 for D-transposition of the great arteries; and 8 for tetralogy of Fallot.

CONCLUSIONS

This project resulted in development of the first set of QIs for ACHD care based on published data, guidelines, and a modified Delphi process. These QIs provide a quality of care assessment tool for 6 ACHD conditions. This rigorously designed set of QIs should facilitate measuring and improving the quality of care for this growing group of patients.

Technical Performance Scores are strongly associated with early mortality, postoperative adverse events, and intensive care unit length of stay-analysis of consecutive discharges for 2 years

OBJECTIVES

Previous work in our institution has indicated that the Technical Performance Score (TPS) is highly associated with early outcomes in select subsets of procedures and age groups. We hypothesized that the TPS could predict early outcomes in a wide range of diagnoses and age groups.

METHODS

Consecutive patients discharged from January 2011 to March 2013 were prospectively evaluated. The TPS was assigned according to the discharge echocardiographic findings and the need for reinterventions in the anatomic area of interest. Case complexity was determined using Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery (RACHS-1) categories. Early mortality and postoperative adverse events were recorded. Relationships between the TPS and outcomes were assessed after adjusting for the baseline patient characteristics.

RESULTS

The median age of the 1926 patients was 1.8 years (range, 0 days to 68 years). Bypass was used in 1740 (90%); 322 (17%) were neonates, 520 (27%) infants, 873 (45%) children, 211 (11%) adults. TPS was class 1 (optimal) in 956 (50%), class 2 (adequate) in 584 (30%), and class 3 (inadequate) in 226 (12%); 160 patients (8%) could not be scored. A total of 51 early deaths (2.6%) and 111 adverse events (5.7%) occurred. On univariate analysis, age, RACHS-1 category, and TPS were significantly associated with mortality and the occurrence of adverse events. On multivariate modeling, class 3 (inadequate) TPS was strongly associated with mortality (odds ratio, 16.9; 95% confidence interval, 6.7-42.9; P < .001), adverse events (odds ratio, 6.9; 95% confidence interval, 4.1-11.6; P < .001), and postoperative intensive care unit length of stay (coefficient, 2.3; 95% confidence interval, 2.0-2.6; P < .001) after adjusting for other covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

The TPS is strongly associated with early outcomes across a wide range of ages and disease complexity and can serve as important tool for self-assessment and quality improvement.

Inadequate technical performance scores are associated with late mortality and late reintervention

BACKGROUND

We have shown previously that technical performance score (TPS) is strongly associated with early mortality and major postoperative adverse events in a diverse group of patients. We now report evaluation of the validity of TPS in predicting late outcomes in the same group of patients.

METHODS

Patients who underwent surgery between June 1, 2005 and June 30, 2006 were included. The TPS were assigned based on discharge echocardiograms and certain clinical criteria as previously described. Follow-up data for up to 4 years were retrospectively collected. Cox proportional hazards models were used for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 679 patients were included in the analysis. One hundred twenty-three (18%) were neonates, 213 (31%) infants, 291 (435) children, and 52 (8%) adults. Four hundred ninety-one (72%) were in low-risk adjustment in congenital heart surgery (RACHS; 1 to 3), 109 (16%) in high risk (4 to 6), and 27 (4%) were less than 18 years and could not be assigned a RACHS score. Three hundred thirty-one (48%) had an optimal TPS, 283 (42%) adequate, 61 (9%) inadequate, and 4 (1%) could not be scored. There were 34 (5%) late deaths and 149 (22%) late unplanned reinterventions. By univariate analysis, age, RACHS-1 categories, and TPS were all significantly associated with late reintervention (p < 0.001 for all), while TPS and RACHS-1 were significant factors for mortality (p < 0.001). On multivariable modeling, inadequate TPS was strongly associated with both late mortality (p = 0.001; HR [hazard ratio] 3.8, CI [confidence interval] 1.7 to 8.4) and late reintervention (p = 0.002, HR 2.1, CI 1.3 to 3.3) after controlling for RACHS-1 and age.

CONCLUSIONS

The TPS has a strong association with late outcomes across a wide range of age and disease complexity and may serve as a tool to identify patients who are at a higher risk for late reintervention or mortality.

Depicting adverse events in cardiac theatre: the preliminary conception of the RECORD model

Human error is a byproduct of the human activity and may results in random unintended events; they may have major consequences when it comes to delivery of medicine. Furthermore the causes of error in surgical practice are multifaceted and complex. This article aims to raise awareness for safety measures in the cardiac surgical room and briefly "touch upon" the human factors that could lead to adverse outcomes. Finally, we describe a model that would enable us to depict and study adverse events in the operating theatre.

Unplanned reinterventions are associated with postoperative mortality in neonates with critical congenital heart disease

OBJECTIVE

Neonates with critical congenital heart disease remain at risk of adverse outcomes after cardiac surgery. Residual or undiagnosed anatomic lesions might be contributory. The present study aimed to describe the incidence and type of cardiac lesions that lead to early, unplanned cardiac reintervention, identify the risk factors for unplanned reintervention, and explore the associations between unplanned reinterventions and hospital mortality.

METHODS

The present single-center retrospective cohort study included 943 consecutive neonates with critical congenital heart disease who underwent cardiac surgery from 2002 to 2008. An unplanned cardiac reintervention was defined as a cardiac reoperation or interventional cardiac catheterization performed during the same hospitalization as the initial operation. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify the risk factors for unplanned cardiac reintervention and hospital mortality.

RESULTS

Of the 943 neonates, 104 (11%) underwent an unplanned cardiac reintervention. The independent predictors of unplanned reintervention included prenatal diagnosis, lower birth weight, need for mechanical ventilation before the initial cardiac operation, lower attending surgeon experience, and greater Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery, version 1, category. Those who underwent reintervention had increased hospital mortality (n = 33/104, 32%) relative to those who did not (n = 31/839, 4%; adjusted odds ratio, 8.6; 95% confidence interval, 4.7 to 15.6; P < .001). The mortality rates among patients undergoing surgical reintervention (23/66, 35%) or transcatheter reintervention (4/16, 25%), or both (6/22, 27%) were similar (P = .66).

CONCLUSIONS

The need for unplanned cardiac reintervention in neonates with critical congenital heart disease is strongly associated with increased mortality. Early unplanned reinterventions might be an important covariate in outcomes studies and useful as a quality improvement measure.

Surgical technical performance scores are predictors of late mortality and unplanned reinterventions in infants after cardiac surgery

OBJECTIVE

We have previously shown that surgical Technical Performance Scores (TPS) are important predictors of early postoperative morbidity across a wide spectrum of procedures and that intraoperative recognition and intervention of residual defects resulted in improved outcomes. We hypothesized that these scores would also be important predictors of midterm outcomes.

METHODS

Neonates and infants aged younger 6 months were prospectively followed from the index surgery for a minimum of 1 year. The TPS were calculated using previously published criteria, including intraoperative course, predischarge echocardiograms or catheterizations, and clinical data, and graded as optimal, adequate, or inadequate. Case complexity was determined by the Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 category. The primary outcome was mortality, and the secondary outcome was the need for unplanned reinterventions. Outcomes were analyzed using nonparametric methods and a logistic regression model.

RESULTS

A total of 166 patients were included in our study, with 7 early deaths. The remaining 159 patients (Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 category 4-6, 76 [48%]; neonates, 78 [49%]) were followed for a minimum of 1 year after surgery. There were 14 late deaths or late transplantations and 55 late reinterventions. On univariate analysis, the TPS were associated with mortality (P < .001) and reintervention (P = .04). On logistic regression analysis, inadequate TPS was associated with late mortality (P < .001; odds ratio, 7.2; 95% confidence interval, 2.2-23.6), and Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery-1 category (P = .004; odds ratio, 3.7; 1.5-8.8) at index surgery was associated with need for late unplanned reintervention.

CONCLUSIONS

Technical performance affects midterm survival after infant heart surgery. Inadequate TPS can be used to prospectively identify patients at ongoing risk of demise and the need for reintervention. An aggressive approach to diagnosing and treating residual lesions at the initial operation is warranted.

Technical performance scores in congenital cardiac operations: a quality assessment initiative

BACKGROUND

Technical performance in congenital cardiac operations and its association with clinical outcomes was previously examined in infants and neonates. The purpose of this study was the development and implementation of a system for measuring technical performance in the majority of congenital cardiac operations to be used as a surgeon's self-assessment tool.

METHODS

Using the methodologic framework piloted at our institution, measures of technical performance were created for more than 90% of all congenital cardiac operations. Each operation was divided into multiple subprocedures to be assessed separately. Criteria for technical scores were created using a consensus panel of senior clinicians and were based primarily on the predischarge echocardiographic findings and need for early postoperative reinterventions. This system of procedure modules was then piloted by prospectively assigning technical scores to all patients undergoing operations.

RESULTS

Thirty modules were created covering more than 90% of the cardiac operations performed. One hundred eighty-five patients were enlisted. One hundred one (54.6%) cases were scored as class 1 (highest), 46 (24.9%) cases as class 2, 22 (11.9%) cases as class 3 (lowest); 16 cases (8.6%) could not be scored. The results were further analyzed by RACHS (Risk Adjustment for Congenital Heart Surgery) categories and outcomes. Valve-procedure-specific criteria were calibrated to reflect specific echocardiographic measurements.

CONCLUSIONS

The development and implementation of a broad technical performance self-assessment system for congenital cardiac operations is possible. Based on this scoring system, the impact of a less than optimal (2 or 3) technical score depends on case risk category, with higher mortality in the higher risk group, and increased resource use for lower risk procedures.

Congenital heart surgeon's technical proficiency affects neonatal hospital survival

OBJECTIVE

Risk factors for mortality after neonatal cardiac surgery have been seldom studied. We sought to identify contemporary risk factors for mortality and the impact of surgical technical performance on surgical outcomes after neonatal cardiac surgery.

METHODS

We conducted a matched case-control study comparing 56 neonates who died after cardiac surgery (2002-2008) with 56 survivors matched by surgical procedure and year of surgery. Surgical efficacy for repair or palliation was graded using a reliable simple surgical technical score. Patient and surgical characteristics were compared for the survivors and nonsurvivors using paired analyses.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between patients who died and their matched controls in terms of age, Aristotle score, Risk Adjustment in Congenital Heart Surgery-1 category, and single versus biventricular repair. When compared with survivors, patients who died were more likely to be premature (41% vs 5%, P < .001), to weigh less than 2.5 kg (25% vs 9%, P = .05), and to have inadequate surgical repair or palliation (55% vs 9%, P < .001). Cardiopulmonary bypass time was longer for the patients who died (median, 159 vs 133 minutes, P = .002). Highest postoperative lactate (median, 9.0 vs 6.0, P < .001), use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (71% vs 13%, P < .001), and reoperation during the same admission (75% vs 2%, P < .001) were also associated with death. In multivariable analysis, inadequate surgical repair or palliation (odds ratio, 11, P = .02) and need for postoperative extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (odds ratio, 5.1, P = .009) were the only risk factors associated with hospital death.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study highlights the need for optimal technical performance to minimize neonatal deaths. This has important implications when sustaining or developing a pediatric cardiac program.