Scoring system to assess severity of congenital heart disease during the first year of life

Abstract

Using a group of 419 Japanese infants with congenital heart disease with increased pulmonary blood flow, a scoring system for assessment of severity was devised. The parameters chosen for objectivity and ease of evaluation were body weight, respiratory rate, maternal history of feeding difficulty, cry and wheeze or cough. Prognosis improved with higher scores. It is felt that this system can be used to aid in communication among physicians and ancillary personnel who care for infants with congenital heart disease. © 1973, International Heart Journal Association. All rights reserved.