Outcomes-Based Cardiology Research

Despite consistencies in clinical care and standardized surgical procedures, recovery sometimes differs among patients undergoing similar treatment. Physical, environmental, and clinical factors can all influence patient outcomes.

Nationwide Children’s Hospital faculty members conduct outcomes-based research among cardiology patients to identify practices and procedures that result in better patient outcomes. Current studies are focused on surgical factors, postoperative care and the affects of intensive care and maternal care giving.

Outcomes-Based Cardiology Research Faculty

Mark Galantowicz, MD
Tondi M. Harrison, PhD, RN, CPNP
Sharon L. Hill, MSN, ACNP
Kerry Rosen, MD
Janet Simsic
Andrew R. Yates, MD

Latest Findings in Outcomes-Based Cardiology Research

Newer Inotropes in Pediatric Heart Failure

Medications known as inotropes are often used in the management of various cardiovascular conditions. However, inotropic support in pediatrics is based largely on adult studies.  This article discusses the use of two new inotropes, levosimendan and istaroxime, that may be applicable in pediatrics.

Access an abstract of this study: Newer inotropes in pediatric heart failure. J Cardiovasc Pharmacol. 2011 Aug;58(2):121-5.

Dexmedetomidine: Applications for the Pediatric Patient with Congenital Heart Disease
This study aimed to provide a general description of the cardiovascular and hemodynamic effects of dexmedetomidine and an evidence-based review of the literature regarding its use in infants and children with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Access an abstract of this study: Dexmedetomidine: Applications for the Pediatric Patient With Congenital Heart Disease. Pediatr Cardiol. 2011 Sep 10. [Epub ahead of print] 

Motavizumab Versus Palivizumab for the Use in Children with Hemodynamically Significant Congenital Heart Disease and RSV Disease
Children with hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease (CHD) are at risk for serious respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) disease. This study was designed to assess the safety and tolerability of motavizumab versus palivizumab in children with CHD.  Both drugs showed similar safety profiles, with the exception of skin events which were increased in motavizumab recipients. Safety and efficacy were consistent with another study comparing motavizumab with palivizumab in premature infants without CHD.

Access an abstract of this study: A randomized controlled trial of motavizumab versus palivizumab for the prophylaxis of serious respiratory syncytial virus disease in children with hemodynamically significant congenital heart disease. Pediatr Res. 2011 Aug;70(2):186-91.

Current Outcomes-Based Cardiology Research Grants

A Follow-Up Study of Autonomic Nervous System Functioning in 3-Year-Old Children with Surgically Corrected Transposition, American Nurses Foundation (Tondi Harrison)

A Pilot Study of a Skin-to-Skin Intervention in Infants with Congenital Heart Defects, Nationwide Institutes of Health, National Institutes of Nursing Research (Tondi Harrison)