Adult congenital heart disease update

Abstract

In this issue of Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care, we discuss the field of Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) is addressed. Following a general overview of the subject provided, a more in-depth and focused review of the field provided by Dr. Curt Daniels (member of the Adult Congenital Heart Association National Conference Leadership Committee, Chair of the Adult Congenital Heart Association Accreditation Steering Committee and Co-Chair of the ACC, ACPC and ACHD Work Group). There is a section on the special medical concerns of women of child bearing age born with congenital heart disease. We pinpoint the role of cardiac CT and MR imaging in this expanding demographic and complete the volume with a review of management of the failing heart in ACHD. This issue will provide the reader with an understanding of the current state of ACHD, the optimal management of these patients and will enable the primary care physician to become a more effective partner in the inter-professional team vital for the high quality care of the patient with ACHD.