The changing landscape of multimodality imaging in congenital heart disease: white paper

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Health

Background:

• The congenital heart disease (CHD) population is growing due to improved pediatric cardiac care and surgical interventions.
• Most CHD cases require lifelong management rather than a cure, presenting new challenges for aging patients.
• The evolving needs and epidemiology of the aging CHD population require specialized attention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the pivotal role of imaging in managing the growing congenital heart disease population.
• To outline the European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging's (EACVI) efforts in standardizing imaging, education, and research for CHD.
• To address the medical, psychosocial, and epidemiological challenges in aging CHD patients.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing multimodality imaging techniques, including echocardiography, cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR), and computed tomography (CT).
• Establishing a shared interest group (SIG) within the EACVI to focus on CHD imaging.
• Reviewing current practices and identifying gaps in education, research, and global healthcare disparities for CHD.

Main Results:

• Multimodality imaging provides essential anatomical and physiological insights for CHD management and risk stratification.
• Standardized imaging protocols and education are critical for improving interventions and outcomes in CHD patients.
• The EACVI SIG is fostering a collaborative approach to address challenges in CHD care.

Conclusions:

• Lifelong expert care and advanced imaging are essential for the growing population of adults with congenital heart disease.
• Continued advancements in imaging, genetics, and tissue engineering are key to improving long-term outcomes for CHD patients.
• Addressing educational and research gaps globally is vital for equitable and effective CHD care.