Cognitive Functioning in Children and Young People with Congenital Heart Disease: A Systematic Review of Meta-Analyses

Maria Koushiou, Sauleha Manzoor, Antonis Jossif, Nuno Ferreira

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

Abstract

Objectives: Congenital heart disease (CHD) is a prevalent condition affecting young people that often necessitates complex medical interventions. This study aims to provide a synthesis of existing meta-analyses examining the impact of CHD on the cognitive functioning in children and young people; Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted, identifying peer-reviewed meta-analyses from 1 January 1976 to 17 December 2024, focusing on the cognitive outcomes of CHD patients aged 0–24 years. Data extraction covered study details, participant demographics, outcomes, and quality assessments. Quality assessment followed the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) checklist, and a narrative synthesis was conducted; Results: The narrative synthesis highlighted significant cognitive impairments in children with CHD across domains such as Intelligence Quotient (IQ), executive functions (EF), memory, and alertness. Cognitive impairments were also observed to become worse with increasing age. Furthermore, surgical interventions were found to impact cognitive outcomes, with surgeries at an early age improving survival rates but not entirely mitigating cognitive deficits. Cognitive impairments were more marked in young people assessed at an older age and with a more complex CHD presentation. Conclusions: Children with CHD face persistent cognitive challenges, underscoring the need for early identification and tailored interventions. Routine cognitive assessments and comprehensive care, including educational and psychological support, are crucial for improving neurodevelopmental outcomes. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to track cognitive development and explore effective rehabilitation programs.

Original languageEnglish
Article number2594
JournalHealthcare (Switzerland)
Volume12
Issue number24
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2024

Keywords

  • cognitive functioning
  • congenital heart disease
  • narrative synthesis
  • neurodevelopmental outcomes

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