SIZE OF VENTRICULAR STRUCTURES INFLUENCES SURGICAL OUTCOME IN DOWN-SYNDROME INFANTS WITH ATRIOVENTRICULAR SEPTAL-DEFECT

To evaluate the relation between ventricular structure size and surgic al outcome in Down versus non-Down syndrome infants with an atrioventr icular septal defect, we reviewed the charts and echocardiograms of 44 consecutive infants (34 with Down syndrome) who underwent atrioventri cular septal defect repair. Children with Down syndrome had significan tly greater aortic valve diameters, left ventricular valve areas, and left/right atrioventricular valve area ratios as well as fewer adverse outcomes than non-Down syndrome children.