Impaired power output and cardiac index with hypoplastic left heart syndrome: a magnetic resonance imaging study

Ann Thorac Surg. 2006 Oct;82(4):1267-75; discussion 1275-7. doi: 10.1016/j.athoracsur.2006.05.020.

Abstract

Background: Unfavorable cardiac mechanics in children with hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) when compared with other single-ventricle defects may affect long-term morbidity and outcome. Using noninvasive phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC MRI), we examined cardiac mechanics in children with HLHS and compared the results to other single-ventricle defects.

Methods: Eighteen children with HLHS and 18 children with other single-ventricle defects were studied after the Fontan operation. Phase contrast MRI scans were obtained perpendicular to the ascending aorta, and flow was quantified using an in-house segmentation and reconstruction scheme. The total power output was determined using the modified Bernoulli equation along with cardiac output and systemic vascular resistance index.

Results: Compared with non-HLHS congenital heart defects, children with HLHS had significantly lower power output (1.40 +/- 0.39 versus 1.78 +/- 0.38 W/m2, p < 0.004) and cardiac index (3.15 +/- 0.97 versus 4.09 +/- 1.23 L x Min(-1) x m(-2), p < 0.009) with a concomitant higher systemic vascular resistance index (28.94 +/- 11.5 versus 22.7 +/- 8.53 WU, p < 0.03) despite generating similar systolic blood pressures (112.9 +/- 22.4 versus 115.2 +/- 23 mm Hg, p > 0.05).

Conclusions: Minimally invasive measurements with PC MRI in children with HLHS showed significantly lower power output and cardiac index when compared with other single-ventricle physiologies. Abnormal aortic flow patterns may contribute to power loss and may have long-term survival and morbidity implications associated with the Fontan procedure. Elevated systemic vascular resistance index despite similar blood pressure opens avenues for therapeutic intervention for afterload reduction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Cardiac Output
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Humans
  • Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome / diagnosis*
  • Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome / physiopathology*
  • Infant
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Vascular Resistance