Cephalometric Measurements in Infants with Congenital Heart Disease Compared to Healthy Infants

The lack of adequate blood perfusion through different organs of the body, including the brain and skull, can be caused by any type of circulation abnormality. The purpose of this study is to compare cephalometric indices between infants under the age of 12 months who have congenital heart disease (CHD) and normal infants. This case-control study was carried out on infants aged one to 12 months who were admitted to Heshmat Heart Hospital and 17 Shahrivar Infant Center Hospital, with those who attended Golha-e-Iran Daycare in Rasht. Cases consisted of infants diagnosed with CHD and control group comprised normal healthy infants. Cephalometric indices, along with anatomical measurements of the head and face as measured by a Martin spreading caliper and graded tape measure were obtained. The volume and weight of the brain, and head and face indices were calculated using related formulas, then analyzed by the SPSS statistical software package. There was a significant difference between weight, height, head length and head circumference in cases and controls (P<0.01), however no significant difference in indices such as volume and weight of the brain, head and face width, and head height was observed. Head indices significantly differed between the two groups (P=0.011). Cases had evidence of a hyperbrachycephalic head shape whereas normal infants had a brachycephalic head formation. The results of this study confirmed the presence of growth retardation caused by CHD. This retardation did not lead to any major anthropometric differences. Possibly, proper diagnosis and effective treatment of these abnormalities could improve the quality of life for infants and children with CHD.