Adult congenital heart disease: magnitude of the problem

Akanksha N Thakkar1, Ponraj Chinnadurai, C Huie Lin

  • 1aHouston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas bSiemens Medical Solutions, Hoffman Estates, Illinois cHouston Methodist DeBakey Heart and Vascular Center, Houston, Texas, USA.

Insights

Adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) affects over 1 million Americans, presenting long-term complications like heart failure and arrhythmias. Improving access to specialized care is crucial for managing these growing challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD)

Background:

  • The population with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) in the U.S. exceeds 1 million and is growing.
  • Advances in pediatric cardiac surgery have led to increased survival, resulting in a larger adult population with complex cardiac conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To quantify the challenges faced by patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD).
  • To identify unmet needs within the ACHD patient population.

Main Methods:

  • This review synthesizes current data on the prevalence and complications of ACHD.
  • Analysis of long-term outcomes and emerging healthcare needs in ACHD patients.

Main Results:

  • The ACHD population is substantial and expanding, with over 1 million individuals in the U.S.
  • Key long-term complications include chronic heart failure, endocarditis, arrhythmias, pulmonary hypertension, valvular dysfunction, and pregnancy-related risks.

Conclusions:

  • Addressing the growing needs of the ACHD population requires enhanced access to specialized care.
  • Advancements in imaging, transcatheter interventions, and quality improvement initiatives are essential for managing ACHD complications.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Imbalances in Cardiac Output01:26

Imbalances in Cardiac Output

The heart's primary function is to pump blood throughout the body, maintaining a balance between blood sent out (cardiac output) and blood returning (venous return). If this balance is disrupted, it can result in congestive heart failure (CHF), a severe condition where the heart becomes an inefficient pump, leading to inadequate blood circulation.
CHF can occur due to the failure of either side of the heart. Left-side failure leads to pulmonary congestion—the right side continues to send...
3.3K
Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy01:29

Cardiomyopathy III: Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, or HCM, is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder characterized by asymmetric left ventricular hypertrophy without ventricular dilation. It is more common in men and is typically diagnosed in young, athletic adults.EtiologyHCM is primarily genetic and is caused by mutations in genes encoding sarcomeric proteins. Researchers have identified over 1400 mutations across at least 11 different genes. Among these, the most frequently occurring mutations are found in the...
574
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy01:30

Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, is a progressive myocardial disorder characterized by ventricular chamber dilation and contractile dysfunction.EtiologyVarious factors can cause DCM, including hypertension and heavy alcohol intake, which contribute to the weakening and enlargement of the heart muscle. Viral infections, such as Coxsackievirus B, adenoviruses, and influenza, can lead to DCM by causing inflammation and damage to heart tissue. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, including daunorubicin,...
673
Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction01:20

Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction

Mitral regurgitation is characterized by the backward circulation of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during systole, a phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart contracts and pumps blood out of the chambers. This abnormal flow occurs primarily due to the dysfunction of the mitral valve or its supporting structures, which include the mitral leaflets, chordae tendineae, annulus, and papillary muscles.Etiology and Mechanisms:Primary Mitral Regurgitation: This type arises from...
746
Pathophysiology of Heart Failure01:17

Pathophysiology of Heart Failure

Heart failure (HF) is a progressive syndrome involving ventricles that leads to inadequate cardiac output. It can be classified based on location and output or ejection fraction. Ejection fraction (EF) is an essential measurement in the diagnosis and surveillance of HF. Reduced EF corresponds to systolic heart failure (HFrEF). However, HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is becoming increasingly prevalent. Also known as diastolic HF, this form of HF is related to aging. The...
4.2K
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care01:29

Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care

Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
551