A practical framework for the management of neonatal bradycardia is provided to guide diagnostic investigations and referral to specialist paediatric cardiology services.
How should neonates with bradycardia be investigated and managed?
Provides a practical framework for the diagnosis and management of neonatal bradycardia, highlighting both cardiac and non-cardiac causes.
Neonatal bradycardia is characterised by a heart rate below 80 bpm, irrespective of gestational age. It is generally self-resolving but, in some cases, represents an underlying pathology which may be cardiac or non-cardiac in origin. The common causes for bradycardia are non-cardiac in origin such as autonomic immaturity in premature infants, electrolyte imbalances, hypothyroidism and medications. Cardiac causes include-sinus bradycardia, conduction system abnormalities, congenital heart disease and channelopathies. Diagnostic investigations typically include a standard 12-lead ECG, 24-hour Holter monitor and an echocardiogram. This article aims to provide a practical framework for the management of neonates with bradycardia and guide further investigation and/or referral to specialist paediatric cardiology services.
Shrestha et al. (Tue,) conducted a review in Neonatal bradycardia. Management framework for neonatal bradycardia was evaluated. A practical framework for the management of neonatal bradycardia is provided to guide diagnostic investigations and referral to specialist paediatric cardiology services.