Complications after surgery for congenital heart disease in infants

Infants may experience complications after surgery for congenital heart disease, including infection, arrhythmia, low cardiac output syndrome, etc., which require targeted management and treatment based on the specific situation to ensure smooth postoperative recovery and reduce risks.

1Infection

Postoperative infection is a common complication, which may include surgical wound infection, pneumonia or endocarditis. To prevent infection, postoperative care is critical. The hospital will give antibiotic treatment and strictly monitor the wound recovery and body temperature changes. Parents need to avoid exposing their babies to high-risk environments for germs and maintain a balanced nutrition. If fever, wound redness and swelling, or abnormal secretions are found, seek medical attention immediately.

2. Arrhythmia

Arrhythmias, such as atrial or ventricular tachycardia, may occur after surgery, mainly due to interference with cardiac tissue or myocardial ischemia caused by surgery. Commonly used drugs in clinical practice include propranolol beta-blockers or amiodarone to regulate heart rhythm. If the arrhythmia is severe and the drug is ineffective, a pacemaker may be implanted to maintain a normal heartbeat.

3 Low cardiac output syndrome

Low cardiac output syndrome is a condition in which the heart is temporarily weakened after heart surgery, resulting in insufficient blood output. Children may have pale skin, decreased urine output, or lethargy. In treatment, positive inotropic drugs such as dopamine or milrinone are usually used to increase the force of cardiac contraction, while fluids and hemodynamic monitoring are used to stabilize the circulation. If the situation is critical, mechanical assist devices such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support may be required.

4. Pleural effusion and lung function problems

Some infants may have pleural effusion or weakened lung function after surgery. This usually requires chest drainage to drain the effusion, while ventilator support and improved lung ventilation are used for treatment. After discharge, parents need to pay attention to their children's respiratory rate and whether they have difficulty breathing or cyanosis symptoms, and communicate with the doctor in a timely manner.

5. Malnutrition and developmental delay

After surgery, some infants may suffer from malnutrition due to increased energy consumption and decreased appetite. Proper postoperative diet arrangements are essential. You can use appropriate high-energy formula milk powder according to the doctor's advice to ensure the baby's growth needs. In some cases, you may need to supplement nutrition through tube feeding.

Postoperative complications of infant congenital heart disease need to be prevented and treated in a timely manner to ensure the effectiveness of the surgery and the long-term health of the infant. Parents need to closely observe their children's postoperative performance and follow up regularly to deal with possible problems early and ensure smooth postoperative recovery.