Inherited aortopathy: considerations for pregnancy and paediatric patients

Abstract

This article is the fifth instalment of a wider series on genetic concepts in cardiovascular medicine. While the previous instalment gave an overview of inherited aortopathies, this article discusses specific considerations for children and pregnant patients with these genetic conditions. This includes pharmacology for children and issues related to surgical intervention in paediatric care. The process of transitioning from paediatric to adult services will also be considered, as this is a key stage for the growing number of patients with inherited aortopathy who reach adulthood, with many opportunities for optimising wellbeing and quality of life. The discussion of pregnancy for patients with inherited aortopathies will include key physiological changes that occur in each trimester, with emphasis on pre-conception counselling and careful management. A case study is provided to further illustrate these points and the key role of the nurse throughout the lifespan of patients with inherited aortopathies.