What is the survival rate for a child with Class C heart failure (Congestive Heart Failure)?

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Last updated: March 9, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

The survival rate for a child with Class C heart failure is approximately 80% at 20 years, as Class C heart failure is often associated with complex congenital heart disease (CHD) 1. This estimate is based on the complexity of the heart disease, with simple CHD having a higher survival rate of 95% at 20 years, and moderate-severity CHD having a survival rate of 90% at 20 years 1. Key factors that influence survival rates in children with CHD include:

  • Disease complexity, with more complex defects having lower survival rates 1
  • Presence of comorbidities, such as ventricular septal defects with comorbidities 1
  • Effectiveness of surgical or catheter-based interventions 1
  • Quality of post-operative care and long-term management 1 It is essential to note that survival rates have improved over time, even for complex CHD, and adults now outnumber children with complex CHD 1. Regular monitoring and follow-up care are crucial to manage potential complications and improve outcomes in children with Class C heart failure.

From the Research

Survival Rate for Class C Heart Failure

There are no research papers provided that directly address the survival rate for a child with Class C heart failure (Congestive Heart Failure). The studies provided focus on cirrhosis, liver disease, and the treatment of acute variceal bleeding, rather than heart failure.

Related Information on Cirrhosis and Liver Disease

  • The studies provided do discuss the prognosis and treatment of patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding, including the use of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunts (TIPS) 2, 3, 4.
  • The Child-Pugh classification system is used to assess the prognosis of patients with cirrhosis, with Class C indicating the most severe disease 5, 6.
  • The Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) score is also used to evaluate the severity of liver disease and predict survival 3, 6.
  • The studies suggest that early TIPS can improve survival in high-risk patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding, particularly those with Child-Pugh Class C or high MELD scores 2, 3, 4.

Key Findings

  • Early TIPS can improve survival in patients with cirrhosis and acute variceal bleeding, particularly those with Child-Pugh Class C or high MELD scores 2, 3, 4.
  • The Child-Pugh classification system is a valid predictor of survival in patients with cirrhosis 6.
  • A MELD score higher than 15 is strongly related to worse survival in patients with cirrhosis 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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