Washington [US]: The findings of a new study suggest that children with a genetic makeup that predicts high blood pressure as adults are more likely to survive congenital heart defect repair surgery. These findings, published in 'Circulation Research', could help inform treatment strategies and improve outcomes for children undergoing congenital heart defect repair procedures, said Todd Edwards, PhD, associate professor of Medicine and senior author of the study.
"There is substantial variability in outcomes following congenital heart defect repair surgery, and it hasn't been clear why one patient might do well, and another might not," Edwards said. "Our study gives us a foothold -- a key insight into this individual variability -- and an opportunity to devise strategies for improving outcomes."
Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common birth defects in the United States, affecting about 40,000 babies each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
