Pulse Oximetry Screening for Critical Congenital Heart Disease: A Four-Year Experience in Qatar.

BACKGROUND

Critical congenital heart disease (CCHD) is a major cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Early postnatal detection using pulse oximetry screening (POCC) facilitates timely diagnosis and intervention.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the performance of POCC for detecting CCHD among newborns delivered at the Women's Wellness and Research Centre, Qatar, between 2017 and 2020.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review of all live births between January 2017 and December 2020 was conducted. Data from screening registries and patient records were analysed using descriptive and comparative methods.

RESULTS

Of 68,150 live births, 141 CCHD cases were identified: 74 (52%) antenatally, 33 (23%) clinically, and 34 (24%) via POCC. Among POCC cases, eight were true positives and 26 false positives (positive predictive value 23.5%). Pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) was the most commonly identified lesion.

CONCLUSION

POCC complements antenatal and clinical diagnosis, identifying silent but critical cases. Universal screening should remain standard practice to ensure early detection and improved outcomes.