Heart Failure and Comorbidities in Patients Evaluated for Cardiovascular Surgery in a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: Heart failure (HF) is a complex clinical syndrome with reduced ability of the heart to pump and/or fill with blood. Acquired and
congenital heart diseases (CHDs) are identified structural causes of HF in low‑ and medium‑income countries.

Objectives: The study aimed to evaluate patients with structural heart disease who were referred for cardiovascular surgery.

Patients, Materials and Methods: This was a prospective descriptive study of 127 adult patients with structural cardiovascular diseases.  A structured questionnaire was administered to them, and biodata and clinical profile were documented. Electrocardiogram,  transthoracic echocardiogram, coronary angiogram, and other ancillary tests were done. The diagnosis was made based on clinical  findings and results of laboratory investigations. Data were collated and analysed.

Results: A total of 127 patients, 61 males (48%) and 66 females (52%), presented with features of structural heart diseases. The mean age was 41.39 ± 16.19 years. Rheumatic valve disease was the most common heart lesion (48.8%), followed by CHDs (25.9%). HF was one of the most common comorbidities with most patients in New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class III.

Conclusion: Rheumatic valve and CHDs were prevalent in this study. HF was a common comorbidity, and most patients were in NYHA  class III.