Introduction The heart-placental axis utilises many common molecules and genes and reflects intimate and synergistic growth of both organs. Abnormal cardiac development leading to CHD can be associated with abnormal placentation and abnormal transfer of nutrients and oxygen.

Objectives We measured the anthropometric parameters (length, weight and head circumference) and the placental weight of 49 FT newborns (gestation period > 36 weeks) infants with CHD {(cyanotic (n = 8) and acyanotic (n = 41)} diagnosed clinically and by echocardiography and compared these data with those for randomly selected normal FT newborns (n = 104).

Results Newborn infants with CHD were significantly shorter and had lower birth weight and smaller head size compared to normal newborns. Their placental weights were significantly decreased compared to those for normal newborns. However, there was no statistically significant difference in the anthropometric parameters of infants with cyanotic versus acyanotic heart disease.

Discussion The intrauterine growth restriction in newborn infants with CHD may represent an adaptive mechanism to cope with the compromised perfusion caused by the congenital cardiac anomaly. However, this restricted growth can pose a risk for postnatal development in these infants.

Conclusion In this study CHD was associated with significant affection of birth weight, length and head circumference and lower placental weight compared to normal newborns.

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Abstract PS-029 Table 1