Pediatr Transplant. 2025 Dec;29(8):e70224. doi: 10.1111/petr.70224.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Right bundle branch block (RBBB) is commonly seen in post-heart transplant (HT) but the risk factors and long-term implications in pediatric recipients are poorly studied. This study examines the RBBB development and outcomes in pediatric HT patients.
METHODS AND MATERIAL: A retrospective review included 99 pediatric HT recipients and were divided into two groups based on RBBB development. Data collected included demographics, surgical parameters, rejection episodes, biopsy frequency, and longitudinal outcomes such as arrhythmias, graft function, and mortality.
RESULTS: The RBBB prevalence was 49%. Higher number of biopsies (median 15 vs. 11; p = 0.002) and HT era (pre-2014: 58% vs. post-2014: 30%; p = 0.016) correlated with development of RBBB. There was no increased mortality (RBBB: 6 deaths vs. NRBBB: 13; p = 0.12) or incidence of coronary vasculopathy in RBBB patients.
CONCLUSION: RBBB development in pediatric HT recipients is associated with frequent endomyocardial biopsies and earlier transplant era and does not pose a poor prognosis.
PMID:41208024 | DOI:10.1111/petr.70224
