Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure
Congenital heart disease and cardiomyopathy are common causes of heart failure in children. Among cardiomyopathies, dilated cardiomyopathy is the most common cause of heart transplant in children. These patients with end-stage heart failure secondary to cardiomyopathy present for multiple interventions requiring anesthesia and may be challenging to manage because of their hemodynamic instability. Thoughtful, collaborative planning and execution of perioperative care is recommended to optimize patient outcomes. This includes good understanding of the patient’s clinical status and the relevant cardiac pathophysiology. Also, an appreciation of the implications of heart failure therapies and the invasive procedures for which the patient requires anesthesia care.