Using the Six-Minute Walk Test to Evaluate Functional Capacity of Children Undergoing a Surgical Repair of Congenital Heart Disease: Two Case Reports.

Congenital heart disease (CHD) presents a range of structural abnormalities in the heart that are present at birth. Advances in surgical techniques have significantly improved outcomes for children with CHD. Common surgical procedures include repair of septal defects, such as atrial septal defects (ASDs) and ventricular septal defects (VSDs), as well as correction of complex anomalies such as tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and transposition of the great arteries. Despite these advancements, it is crucial to assess the exercise capacity of children with CHD. This evaluation provides insights into their cardiovascular function and helps tailor appropriate exercise recommendations. Children with CHD often exhibit reduced exercise tolerance due to factors such as altered heart function, limited blood flow, or impaired oxygen delivery. Assessing their exercise capacity through standardized tests, such as the six-minute walk test (6MWT) or cardiopulmonary exercise test, helps clinicians gauge their functional abilities and determine any limitations. Understanding a child's exercise capacity guides medical management and also aids in designing personalized exercise programs to promote cardiovascular health and overall well-being. Regular assessments can track changes over time, ensuring optimal care and enhancing the quality of life (QOL) for children living with CHD. These two case reports examine the exercise capacity of two children with CHD who underwent surgery for VSD. Both children participated in the 6MWT, covering 223 and 183 meters, respectively. The physiological responses of these two CHD patients during the exercise test are discussed in this case series. This case series provides information regarding the cardiovascular adjustment during the 6MWT and various causes that affected them to complete the 6MWT.