Quantification of Cerebral Perfusion by Contrast-enhanced Ultrasound During Neonatal Heart Surgery

Quantifizierung Der Hirnperfusion Während Kinderherzchirurgischer Operationen Durch Transkraniellen Kontrastmittelverstärkten Ultraschall

Transcranial contrast-enhanced ultrasound for evaluation of cerebral blood flow during pediatric cardiac surgery. This study is aimed as a feasibility study prior to conducting a lager prospective clinical trial including neurologic and developmental outcome measures.

The cerebral perfusion of infants with congenital heart defects is a critical determinant during cardiac surgery. The majority of these interventions is performed during deep or moderate hypothermia (25-32°C) with reduced blood flow of the heart-lung-machine (HLM). Assuming a symmetrical anatomy of the cerebral arteries (C. Willisii) a single vessel (T. brachiocephalicus) is then supplying the cerebral blood flow. Using contrast-enhanced ultrasound the cerebral blood flow will be assessed during cardiac surgery interventions.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Neonates and infants ≤ 4 month (open fontanelle)
• Proper ultrasound conditions/window
• Appropriate general and neurologic state of health
• Written consent of both parents/guardians
• Availability of trained sonographer (medical doctor)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Absence of trained sonographer (medical doctor)
• Intolerance against SonoVue® (bzw. sulphur hexafluoride)
• Missing signed consent
• Reduced or inappropriate general and neurologic state of health
• Preexisting cerebral injury