Managing CHD in tertiary NICU in collaboration with a cardiothoracic centre

Purpose: Increasingly non-cardiac tertiary neonatal intensive care units (NCTNs) manage newborns with CHD prior to planned transfer to specialist cardiac surgical centres (SCSC). It improves patient flow in SCSCs, enables families to be nearer home, and improves psychological well-being 1 . This practice has gradually increased as the number of SCSCs has decreased. This study examines the effectiveness of this expanding practice. The management provided, length of stay and outcomes are described for one UK NCTN situated at a significant distance from its SCSC. Methods: : A retrospective observational study of cardiac-related admissions to a NCTN between January 2010 and December 2019 was conducted. Results: : 190 neonates were identified: 41 had critical CHD; 64 had major CHD. The cohort includes babies with a wide range of cardiac conditions and additional complexities. 23.7% (n=45) required transfer to a specialist centre after a period of stabilisation and growth ranging from several hours to 132 days. 68% (n=130) were discharged home or repatriated to a local NICU. Of the remaining 15 babies, 13 were transferred to other specialties including the hospice. Two died on NICU.The mortality was consistent with the medical complexity of the group 2,3 . 8.9% (n=17) died before age 2. Nine babies had care redirected due to an inoperable cardiac condition or life-limiting comorbidities. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates a complex neonatal cohort with CHD can be managed effectively in a NCTN, supporting the current model of care. The NCTN studied was well supported by paediatricians with expertise in cardiology alongside visiting paediatric cardiologists.