ABSTRACT
Introduction 39 Transitional circulation 39 Postnatal morphological changes occurring in the heart
and great vessels 40 Developmental changes in cardiac intercellular structure
and organisation 42
Postnatal development of the cardiomyocyte 43 Developmental changes in the regulation of cardiovascular
function 48 Developmental changes in cardiovascular function 50 Developmental changes in the response to vasoactive drugs 51 References 57
Significant physiological changes occurring after birth have an effect not only on myocardial performance, but also on the structure, functioning and control of the cardiovascular system as a whole. Our understanding of these developmental processes has advanced substantially in recent years. In this chapter, I have described those aspects of postnatal development that affect the cardiovascular system, giving most emphasis to those changes that have a direct influence on perioperative care.
