Pericardial Effusions After the Arterial Switch Operation: A PHIS Database Review

Background: Pericardial effusion (PCE) is a significant complication after pediatric cardiac surgery. This study investigates PCE development after the arterial switch operation (ASO) and its short-term and longitudinal impacts. Methods: A retrospective review of the Pediatric Health Information System database. Patients with dextro-transposition of the great arteries who underwent ASO from January 1, 2004, to March 31, 2022, were identified. Patients with and without PCE were analyzed with descriptive, univariate, and multivariable regression statistics. Results: There were 4896 patients identified with 300 (6.1%) diagnosed with PCE. Thirty-five (11.7%) with PCE underwent pericardiocentesis. There were no differences in background demographics or concomitant procedures between those who developed PCE and those who did not. Patients who developed PCE more frequently had acute renal failure (N = 56 (18.7%) vs N = 603(13.1%), P = .006), pleural effusions (N = 46 (15.3%) vs N = 441 (9.6%), P = .001), mechanical circulatory support (N = 26 (8.7%) vs N = 199 (4.3%), P