Adult congenital heart disease: a 2008 overview

Introduction: During the past decades, health care of patients born with congenital heart disease (CHD) has improved substantially, leading to a growing population of adult survivors. Source of data: Using the recently published and relevant data on adult CHD (ACHD), we reviewed the most common congenital heart defects and discussed important related issues. Areas of agreement: Adults with CHD most often require specialized medical or surgical care in a tertiary centre. However, this population also need local follow-up; general practitioners and other specialists therefore have to face the complexity of their disease. Areas of controversies: Management of pregnancy, non-cardiac surgery, arrhythmias and endocarditis prophylaxis may be challenging in patients with CHD and should be adapted to their condition. Growing points: The present article summarizes key clinical information on ACHD for the benefit of physicians who are not specialized in this field. Areas timely for developing research: Research efforts and education strategies are greatly needed in order to optimize the care of patients with ACHD.