Thoracic Key

Abstract Over the past two decades survival from pediatric cardiac arrest has improved dramatically, particularly in the in-hospital setting, from 15% to nearly 50%. The reasons for this are multifactorial…

Abstract Nutrition is a vital consideration in children with critical heart disease for several reasons: (1) nutritional deficiency may cause heart disease; (2) congenital heart disease (CHD) may cause malnutrition…

Abstract The triad of preload, afterload, and inotropic state of the heart determines stroke volume, which together with heart rate determines cardiac output. The parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems regulate…

Abstract Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital malformation, causing up to 10% of infant deaths and 50% of deaths due to a congenital malformation, while extracardiac congenital…

Abstract Advances in cardiac surgery over the last three decades have translated to a shift in the epidemiology of congenital heart disease mortality from childhood to adulthood. As a result,…

Abstract Mortality from surgery to correct congenital heart disease has improved, but high incidences of neurologic injuries and neurodevelopmental abnormalities persist. Neonates with critical heart disease have the highest risk…

Abstract A thorough understanding of the basics of respiratory physiology is essential for any clinician caring for patients in the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU). Distribution of ventilation, pulmonary blood…

Abstract This chapter discusses the roles of anesthesia and sedation for infants and children with pediatric heart disease. The goal is for providers that are caring for these patients to…

Abstract Acute kidney injury is one of the most common comorbidities among patients with congenital and acquired heart disease. Patients with acute kidney injury after cardiac surgery or with congestive…