Neuroimaging, cardiovascular physiology, and functional outcomes in infants with congenital heart disease

Nathalie H P Claessens, Christopher J Kelly, Serena J Counsell, Manon J N L Benders

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

45 Citations (Scopus)
245 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

This review integrates data on brain dysmaturation and acquired brain injury using fetal and neonatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), including the contribution of cardiovascular physiology to differences in brain development, and the relationship between brain abnormalities and subsequent neurological impairments in infants with congenital heart disease (CHD). The antenatal and neonatal period are critical for optimal brain development; the developing brain is particularly vulnerable to haemodynamic disturbances during this time. Altered cerebral perfusion and decreased cerebral oxygen delivery in the antenatal period can affect functional and structural brain development, while postnatal haemodynamic fluctuations may cause additional injury. In critical CHD, brain dysmaturation and acquired brain injury result from a combination of underlying cardiovascular pathology and surgery performed in the neonatal period. MRI findings in infants with CHD can be used to evaluate potential clinical risk factors for brain abnormalities, and aid prediction of functional outcomes at an early stage. In addition, information on timing of brain dysmaturation and acquired brain injury in CHD has the potential to be used when developing strategies to optimize neurodevelopment.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)894–902
JournalDevelopmental Medicine and Child Neurology
Volume59
Issue number9
Early online date19 May 2017
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2017

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Neuroimaging, cardiovascular physiology, and functional outcomes in infants with congenital heart disease'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this