Congenital Heart Disease
Articles tagged with Congenital Heart Disease
The Chinese Children's Congenital Heart Disease Genome Research Project identifies novel pathogenic genes and elucidates genetic mechanisms
King's research team secures funding to advance ultrasound-led detection of congenital heart disease
Researchers at King's College London have been awarded £191,000 to enhance the prediction of aortic coarctation by adapting their established biomarker from MRI to ultrasound. The goal is to improve the accuracy of CoA diagnosis before birth using routine 2D scans.
Policy revision expands access to rotational atherectomy without compromising PCI outcomes
The 2020 facility revision criteria for rotational atherectomy did not increase adverse events among patients treated for coronary artery disease. The expansion of RA eligibility to low-volume, non-training hospitals improved patient care and reduced geographical disparities.
Altered brain networks in newborns with congenital heart disease
Research reveals altered brain networks in newborns with congenital heart disease, which may be linked to sensory perception, movement, and social behavior. After corrective surgery, these brain networks are improved, suggesting that cardiac surgery can improve brain health.
Researchers identify “fingerprint” of gene that commonly causes congenital heart defects
A team of researchers from the University of Oldenburg has discovered a unique genetic pattern, or 'fingerprint', associated with NOTCH1 gene variants that commonly cause congenital heart defects. This breakthrough enables more reliable diagnoses and targeted therapies for patients and their families.
AI-powered ECG could help guide lifelong heart monitoring for patients with repaired tetralogy of fallot
A Mount Sinai-led study developed an AI tool that analyzes ECGs to identify patients at risk for harmful heart changes, potentially reducing the need for expensive and time-consuming cardiac MRI scans. The tool could make lifelong heart monitoring more accessible and efficient for people born with congenital heart disease.
New discovery reveals how a tiny cellular signal helps shape the human heart
Researchers at Adelaide University have uncovered a crucial new mechanism controlling heart development by regulating key growth signals. Neural crest cells fine-tune Wnt signalling to ensure proper heart formation, and disruptions lead to serious congenital heart defects.
Mount Sinai Health system receives $8.5 million NIH grant renewal to advance research on long-term outcomes in children with congenital heart disease
The Mount Sinai Hospital has received an $8.5 million NIH grant renewal to continue groundbreaking research on long-term outcomes for children with congenital heart disease. The project will unite clinical leaders and registry data from all 25 congenital heart surgical centers across four states to study how differences in health care ...
ACC/AHA issue new guideline on managing congenital heart disease in adults
Adults born with heart defects are at increased risk of cardiac complications as they age. The new guideline provides recommendations for monitoring, counseling, and treating Congenital Heart Disease (CHD), including mental health assessment and physical activity guidance. It also emphasizes the importance of access to ongoing speciali...
$3.2M NIH grant to test and refine a heart pump for long-term use in children
Researchers at Penn State are developing a small, durable ventricular assist device (VAD) specifically designed for young children with heart failure. The PSU Child VAD aims to provide long-term support while waiting for a heart transplant, improving quality of life and outcomes.
Landmark study reveals hidden frailty crisis in young heart attack patients
Researchers have identified a distinct type of frailty in younger people driven by cardiovascular and metabolic illnesses, leading to poor outcomes and premature death. The study calls for routine frailty assessments in all heart attack patients, regardless of age.
More prenatal visits linked to right level of care for infants born with heart defects
A study published in JAMA Network Open found that more prenatal visits are associated with a lower likelihood of delivery at a cardiac surgical center for babies with mild congenital heart defects. This suggests that families can receive the right level of care closer to home, reducing stress and cost.
Study identifies 14 risk factors for long ICU stays in children after heart surgery
A recent study analyzed data from 4,348 pediatric patients with congenital heart disease to identify key predictors of prolonged ICU stays. The research highlights the importance of patient-specific and post-operative management factors in reducing extended care.
Heart ‘blueprint’ reveals origins of defects and insights into fetal development
Researchers have discovered a previously unknown group of cells that produce adrenaline, which may help the fetal heart adapt to stress. The study provides a detailed map of the developing human heart, revealing over 70 distinct cell types and their interactions.
Drug prevents congenital heart block recurrence in a high-risk pregnancy
Researchers found a drug that blocks harmful immune proteins, preventing congenital heart block in newborns. A multicenter trial is planned to assess the effectiveness of the drug in preventing congenital heart block.
Scientists pinpoint a key gene behind heart defects in Down syndrome
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes discover a gene called HMGN1 that disrupts DNA packaging and regulation, leading to heart malformations in people with Down syndrome. Removing the extra copy of HMGN1 from mice with Down syndrome prevents heart defects, paving the way for potential treatments.
Partial heart transplant for congenital heart disease
A case series of 19 patients has successfully undergone partial heart transplant, enabling valve growth and representing a novel approach to congenital heart disease treatment. Careful follow-up and monitoring are crucial for the continued expansion of this procedure.
SCAI releases new guidance to improve safety and outcomes of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) closure in premature infants
The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions (SCAI) has published a new position statement providing best-practice guidance for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in premature infants using transcatheter occlusion. The guidance emphasizes patient selection, pre-procedural planning, and post-procedure follow-u...
How the early heart develops
A team of scientists has found that the ion channel PIEZO2 is crucial for coronary vessel formation and heart development. Without PIEZO2, coronary arteries may develop improperly, leading to oxygen supply issues in the heart muscle. This discovery could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of congenital heart defects.
Link between autism and heart defects offers hope for early autism diagnosis
Scientists have discovered a link between autism spectrum disorders and congenital heart disease, finding that tiny hair-like structures called cilia underlie the shared biology of both conditions. This study offers hope for early diagnosis and intervention, with potential benefits for children with autism.
Experts at ISHLT report urgent need for pediatric heart support devices
Pediatric hearts fail due to acquired and genetic disorders or congenital heart disease, requiring mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices. However, adult devices are often used off-label in pediatric patients, deterring innovation and limiting access to life-saving technology.
Does anemia during pregnancy affect newborns’ risk of heart defects?
Researchers discovered that mothers who are anemic in early pregnancy have a 47% increased likelihood of giving birth to a child with congenital heart disease. This finding suggests that widespread iron supplementation could help prevent congenital heart disease in many newborns before it develops.
Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital recognized by Press Ganey for patient experience excellence
The Mount Sinai Fuster Heart Hospital cardiology faculty practice has received the 2024 Human Experience Pinnacle of Excellence Award from Press Ganey, a leading patient experience organization. The hospital ranks among the top 5% of healthcare providers in delivering patient experience over three years.
Study looks at impact of COVID-19 pandemic on rates of congenital heart disease procedures among children
A study led by University of Bristol found that COVID-19 pandemic reduced elective surgery in children with CHD, but did not increase post-operative complications or death. The research suggests prioritizing urgent and emergency procedures may be appropriate during healthcare disruptions.
Recruiting now: Australian study to uncover genetic cause of rare diseases
A national study in Australia aims to understand the genetic cause of rare diseases, improving diagnoses and treatment options for those affected. The study is recruiting Australians with a known or suspected rare genetic disease to gather information and connect them with future research opportunities.
Study implicates 60 genes in congenital heart disease, including some that that also contribute to related to disorders such as autism
Researchers identified 60 genes linked to congenital heart disease, with some also contributing to neurodevelopmental disorders like autism. The study provides new insight into the genetic architecture of CHD and has implications for prenatal screening and early risk assessment.
JSCAI special issue explores the transformative role of artificial intelligence in interventional cardiology
This special issue explores AI's applications across various subspecialties, including coronary interventions, structural heart disease, and cardiovascular imaging. It highlights the importance of responsible AI integration and addressing bias in decision support systems.
Study shows rise in congenital heart defects in states with restrictive abortion laws
Researchers report a significant increase in congenital heart defects in states with restrictive abortion laws, exceeding pre-Dobbs trends. This trend is associated with higher healthcare utilization needs and potential non-financial strains on families.
Long-lived families show lower risk for peripheral artery disease
Research from the Long Life Family Study found individuals from long-lived families have significantly better vascular health than the general population. The study identified key risk factors and four genomic regions linked to PAD risk, providing novel insight into underlying mechanisms.
Australian researchers call for greater diversity in genomics
A new study highlights the need for more diversity in genomics research, as a commonly found gene variant was mistakenly linked to heart disease in people from Oceanian communities. The researchers found that the variant is actually common among healthy individuals from these regions.
Scientists discover gene linked to heart defects in children
Researchers identified a single gene, CIROZ, responsible for pediatric heart defects and abnormal organ placement. The study found that mutations in this gene can lead to severe heart defects at birth, emphasizing the importance of preventive strategies and curative therapies.
New drug may reduce need for aortic valve surgeries by slowing disease progression
Researchers explore ataciguat to manage aortic valve stenosis, showing potential to significantly slow disease progression. The drug may enable a once-in-a-lifetime procedure by delaying valve replacement surgery.
Hidden genetic causes of congenital heart disease identified
Researchers at The Mount Sinai Hospital have identified 10 novel gene pairs potentially linked to the development of CHD. Their study uses trio exome sequencing data to uncover previously hidden genetic risks, which could improve diagnostic precision and open new avenues for personalized treatment strategies.
Patients who received Ross procedure demonstrate excellent survival rates after 20 years
A study of 252 patients who underwent the Ross procedure found that survival rates were 95.8% at 5 years, 94.3% at 10 years, and 90.3% at 20 years. The procedure offers excellent long-term survival rates with low risk of re-intervention, making it an alternative to mechanical valve replacement.
Pediatric investigation research letter inspects parvovirus B19-induced myocarditis cases in preschoolers
Researchers document five cases of parvovirus B19-induced myocarditis in preschoolers from northern Greece, highlighting the virus's unique impact on endothelial cells. The study emphasizes the importance of quick diagnosis and treatment to reduce mortality and morbidity in children.
Bringing genomics into public policy requires greater awareness, professional training, and investment
The WHO's Technical Advisory Group on Genomics published an article outlining challenges and actions to promote the use of genomics in public health. The group aims to increase awareness and provide technical guidance to accelerate access to genetic technologies, enabling preventive measures and targeted treatment for various diseases.
Unlocking better outcomes for adults with congenital heart disease
A recent study published in JAMA Network Open found that 84% of adults with congenital heart disease reported good or better health-related quality of life, despite complex CHD. However, participants with complex CHD were less likely to meet physical activity guidelines and reported mood disorders.
Study offers better insights into quality of life for adults with congenital heart disease
A study involving 4,500 participants has provided valuable insights into the long-term quality of life of adults with congenital heart disease (CHD). Key findings include a high percentage of participants experiencing comorbidities, arrhythmias, and mood disorders, while quality of life is generally good or better for 84%.
Black infants with heart abnormalities more likely to die in first year
Research reveals that Black infants with congenital heart disease are 40% more likely to die in the first year than white infants, despite overall death rates decreasing for both groups. The American Academy of Pediatrics study found a significant disparity in mortality rates between Black and white infants born with heart abnormalities.
Genetic screening revolutionizes congenital heart disease detection
A recent study uses CNV-seq and WES to detect congenital heart disease, identifying genes contributing to CHD and increasing diagnostic yield. The combination of these technologies boosts detection rates for CHDs, improving prenatal management.
Children can inherit early aging symptoms from parents who abuse alcohol, researchers find
Parents who struggle with alcohol use disorders can pass along symptoms of early aging to their children, affecting them well into adulthood. These accelerated aging effects include high cholesterol, heart problems, arthritis, and early onset dementia.
New project commits $13 million to study biological mechanisms of rare congenital heart defect
A new $13 million project launched by the American Heart Association and Additional Ventures aims to study the biological mechanisms of single ventricle heart disease. The five-year initiative will bring together teams of scientists to expand understanding of underlying biological mechanisms and science related to clinical complications.
Adults with congenital heart disease faced higher risk of abnormal heart rhythms
A new study from Israel found that nearly 1 in 5 adults with congenital heart disease developed an abnormal heart rhythm during a five-year study. Those who developed arrhythmias had twice the risk of early death and increased hospitalization rates compared to those without irregular heart rhythms.
The Texas Heart Institute collaborates on multi-institutional DOD grant to develop novel left ventricular assist device
Researchers aim to address LVAD shortcomings, reducing blood damage and clotting risk through innovative designs and coatings. A novel flexible stented blood inlet and slippery hydrophilic coatings will be used to prevent flow stasis and clot formation.
Latest research redefines neurodevelopmental risks, outcomes for congenital heart disease
A new American Heart Association scientific statement offers the latest knowledge on neurodevelopmental outcomes in people of all ages with congenital heart disease. The statement highlights that neurodevelopmental difficulties are common complications faced by individuals with congenital heart disease, affecting their ability to funct...
Revolutionary genomic study sheds light on immune microenvironment in transplanted pediatric hearts
A team of researchers from Texas Heart Institute and Baylor College of Medicine have made a significant discovery about the underlying molecular cell states within transplanted pediatric hearts. They found that donor-derived tissue-resident macrophages are crucial for graft acceptance, but their loss leads to allograft failure.
Children's Hospital Colorado accepted as one of nine core sites nationally in the prestigious Pediatric Heart Network
Children's Hospital Colorado is one of nine core sites nationally in the Pediatric Heart Network, a collective working to improve outcomes and quality of life for children with heart disease. The hospital's Heart Institute will conduct multisite research projects over the next seven years.
Heart organoids simulate pregestational diabetes-induced congenital heart disease
Scientists created a human heart organoid system to simulate embryonic heart development under pregestational diabetes-like conditions. The organoids recapitulate hallmarks of the condition and showed that ER stress and lipid imbalance contribute to the disorders. Exposure to omega-3s ameliorated the effects.
Gene-based therapy may slow development of life-threatening heart condition
Researchers have found that a gene-based therapy targeting plakophilin-2 can interrupt the progression of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy, a rare inherited disorder. The treatment reduced episodes of arrhythmia and slowed the deterioration of the heart's walls in mice.
Better survival rates among heart patients with Down syndrome
A study by the University of Gothenburg found that children born with Down syndrome and congenital heart defects have better survival rates since 1990. However, their mortality rate is still 85% higher than others with a congenital heart defect but without Down syndrome.
Common heart medication digoxin shows promise in enhancing survival after surgery for infants with certain heart defects
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that digoxin treatment significantly reduced mortality and the need for a transplant among infants undergoing a hybrid procedure for single-ventricle physiology. The researchers analyzed data from 259 infants who received digoxin during their interstage per...
Heart vest could help predict sudden cardiac death risk
A new study by UCL researchers suggests that a vest mapping the heart's electrical activity could help identify people at high risk of sudden cardiac death. The electrocardiographic imaging (ECGI) vest combines signals with MRI images to generate 3D models, potentially predicting risk factors for life-threatening heart rhythms.
Deaths from heart valve infections drop across U.S. overall, but surged among young adults
A new study found that deaths from infective endocarditis decreased overall in the US, but rose sharply among people ages 25-44, likely linked to the opioid crisis. Researchers call for more investigation into the trends and recommend comprehensive care plans including substance use disorder screening and treatment.
Gladstone team uncovers why maternal diabetes predisposes babies to heart defects
Researchers at Gladstone Institutes have identified cells and molecules that go awry in the developing hearts of fetuses in women with diabetes, leading to higher levels of retinoic acid activity. The study could eventually lead to interventions to lower heart malformations risk in babies born to women with diabetes.
How can adults with congenital heart disease reduce risks? Study finds lifetime cardiology monitoring is key
Adults with congenital heart disease are at increased risk of death or cardiovascular complications after hospitalization for heart failure. However, those who received recent cardiology care before hospital admission had lower rates of death and major complications.
Chronic kidney disease may be linked to sudden cardiac arrest in Hispanic/Latino adults
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that chronic kidney disease may increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest among Hispanic/Latino adults. Heavy drinking and preexisting heart disease were also linked to an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest.
Congenital Heart Surgeons' Society (CHSS) and fourteen professional organizations announce recommendations for performing pediatric heart surgery in US
Leading professional organizations announce first-time multidisciplinary consensus guidelines for essential and comprehensive care centers in the US. The guidelines aim to address known variation in outcomes at different centers, providing structure, process, and outcome components necessary for quality care.
UCLA research suggests that heart transplantation is safer for adults with single-ventricle CHD than previously thought
Researchers analyzed data from 2005-2020 and found that 10-year conditional survival was similar between biventricular and most single-ventricle CHD patients. Biventricular CHD patients also showed better 10-year survival compared to non-CHD heart transplant recipients.
Virtual drug quiets noise in heart tissue images
A new computational approach removes movement in heart cell and tissue images, allowing direct monitoring of electro-mechanical coupling. The algorithm mimics a drug's action, giving insight into heart diseases.