Addressing Diastolic Dysfunction in the Congenital Heart Population

Ryan M Edwards1, Allison P Levin2, Richard A Krasuski2

  • 1Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, 2301 Erwin Rd, Durham, NC, 27705, USA. ryan.m.edwards@duke.edu.

Current Cardiology Reports
|September 12, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Diastolic dysfunction is common in congenital heart disease (CHD). Advanced imaging and tailored management are key for assessing and treating this growing population.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Congenital Heart Disease
  • Diastology

Background:

  • Diastolic dysfunction is increasingly recognized in the aging congenital heart disease (CHD) population.
  • Prevalence varies across different congenital lesions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent advances in evaluating diastolic dysfunction in CHD.
  • To discuss management considerations for this unique patient group.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current literature on diastolic dysfunction assessment in CHD.
  • Discussion of traditional and emerging non-invasive imaging techniques.
  • Analysis of management strategies tailored to individual lesions.

Main Results:

  • Non-invasive assessment applicability differs based on specific CHD lesion.
  • Echocardiography is suitable for systemic left ventricle lesions.
  • Advanced techniques like 4D-flow cardiac MRI and late gadolinium enhancement are useful for complex lesions.
  • Management includes surveillance, medication, lifestyle changes, and device therapy.

Conclusions:

  • Diastolic dysfunction is a significant concern in the expanding CHD population.
  • Individualized assessment and management are crucial.
  • Further research into lesion-specific mechanisms is needed for optimal intervention.
Abstract

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