TITLE:
Prevalence of Congenital Heart Disease Associated with Extracardiac Congenital Malformations in Paediatric Surgery
AUTHORS:
Yves N’da Kouakou N’goran, Avoh Ami Echua Manzan, Traoré Fatoumata Epouse Diaby, Tano-Akoto Micesse, Camara Zenabou, Kouamé Yves Wilfried, Akoun Oboe Ange-Marie Christopher, Djibom Diana Viwassi, Eric Koutoua Katché, Yoboua Aimé Kirioua-Kamenan, Kramoh Kouadio Euloge
KEYWORDS:
Congenital Heart Defect, Extracardiac Malformation, Paediatric Surgery, Child, Cardiac Surgery
JOURNAL NAME:
World Journal of Cardiovascular Diseases,
Vol.16 No.10,
October
13,
2026
ABSTRACT: Background: Congenital heart defects (CHDs) are the most common congenital malformations. They are frequently associated with other extracardiac congenital malformations (ECCMs) and genetic syndromes. These ECCMs are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in CHDs. Despite its clinical significance, there are few publications on the association between CHD and ECCMs, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Objective: To analyse CHD associated with ECCMs. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective, cross-sectional, analytical study conducted among children aged 0 to 15 years attending paediatric surgery clinics over a six-month period (April to September 2024). The study was carried out in the paediatric cardiology department of the Abidjan Cardiology Institute (ICA). Patients were referred by the paediatric surgery departments of the Treichville and Cocody University Teaching Hospitals (CHU). Results: 79 children with extracardiac congenital malformations were recruited. Cleft lip and palate (CLP) was the most common cleft condition, with 35 cases. The prevalence of congenital heart defects (CHDs) associated with ECCMs was 35.44%, comprising 28 cases. The most common CHD was patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) (n = 6), followed by atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) at rates of 17.86% (n = 5) and 14.28% (n = 4) respectively. The highest incidence of CHD was observed in children with FLP, at 32.15%. Multiple pregnancies, multiparity and miscarriage were associated with the occurrence of CHD and CHD-related complications. Conclusion: Miscarriage, gestation and parity have been linked to the occurrence of the combination of CHD and ECCM. The frequency of this combination necessitates systematic screening for CHD from birth, and even more so in cases where ECCM is present.