Cardiac autonomic nervous activity in patients with transposition of the great arteries after arterial switch operation

2022

Cardiac Autonomic Nervous Activity in Patients with Transposition of the Great Arteries After Arterial Switch Operation

Sample size: 26 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Covadonga Terol Espinosa de los Monteros, Roel L.F. van der Palen, Ineke Nederend, Eco J.C. de Geus, Irene M. Kuipers, Mark G. Hazekamp, Nico A. Blom, Arend D.J. ten Harkel

Primary Institution: Leiden University Medical Center

Hypothesis

The study aims to determine whether the autonomic nervous system (ANS) plays a role in the long-term outcome of patients with Transposition of Great Arteries (TGA) after arterial switch operation (ASO).

Conclusion

The sympathetic nervous system response to physical activity is reduced in TGA patients after ASO, and higher parasympathetic activity correlates with better left ventricular function.

Supporting Evidence

Heart rate was significantly lower in TGA patients at rest and during quiet and active sitting.
Sympathetic activity was significantly reduced in patients during physical activity.
Parasympathetic activity was higher in TGA patients while quiet and active sitting.
A significant positive correlation was found between left ventricular function and parasympathetic activity.

Takeaway

This study found that kids with a heart condition called TGA have a weaker response from their heart's nervous system during exercise, but those with a stronger calming response tend to have healthier hearts.

Methodology

The study evaluated ANS activity non-invasively in 26 TGA patients and 52 healthy subjects using impedance cardiography and electrocardiography during various daily activities.