Evaluation of Neurological and Auditory Development in Children with Congenital Heart Disease using Essence Q Questionnaire and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) Test

The progress of cardiac surgery in children and the increase in the survival of children with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) has led to consider another issue called a neurodevelopmental disorder. In this study, 53 children with CHD were evaluated in terms of development with the Essence Q questionnaire, Otoacoustic Emission (OAE), and Auditory Brainstem Response (ABR) regarding these patients’ hearing and risk factors. The Essence Q scores were also examined

In this prospective, cross-sectional study, the researchers included 53 children diagnosed with CHD. Initially, each child underwent ABR and OAE tests. Subsequently, data on potential risk factors associated with neurodevelopmental delay were collected. A trained project associate administered the Essence Q questionnaire, using parents’ information as a guide. Following data collection, this study proceeded with an in-depth analysis of the information.

Thirty-six boys (67.92%) and 17 girls (32.08%) with CHD were included in the study. The mean age of children was 2/23+_8.11. The mean Essence Q score for boys was 7.48+_2.57.
Moreover, the average score for girls was 2.23 8.11. According to this questionnaire, 39 patients (73.58%) had hyperactivity disorder,46 patients (86.79%) had behavioral disorders, and ten patients (16.98%) had a motor delay. Unlike previous studies, all patients had normal OAE and ABR hearing.

This study demonstrated that factors such as developmental delay in the first year, a known genetic disease, and a history of seizures significantly impacted the Essence Q score. However, elements like prematurity, the use of ventilation, abnormalities on the dorsum, and the number of days post surgery did not significantly affect the Essence Q score. Essence Q can be a reliable tool in screening for neurodevelopment in children with CHD