Congenital heart disease (CHD) is any structural heart defect or malformation that is present at birth. These can range from simple defects with little symptoms to complex cases that require surgical intervention. An estimated one in 100 babies is born with some kind of congenital heart defect, and these problems are often corrected with heart surgery during childhood. More and more children born with structural heart defects survive well into adulthood, but they face possible long-term complications and need regular evaluations throughout life.

To meet the unique needs of adults with CHD, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin health network, in conjunction with Children’s Wisconsin, offers the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program. The program brings together experts in congenital heart conditions and structural heart disease, and provides a full range of care options for patients, from testing and diagnosis to treatments including medication management, minimally invasive procedures, interventional procedures, surgery and follow-up care.

Adult Congenital Heart Disease Conditions

There are many types of congenital and inherited heart disease, and adults with heart defects require lifelong monitoring to prevent serious cardiac and non-cardiac complications. Our multidisciplinary team of specialists takes a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating adults with all types of congenital heart disease.

One of just a few in Wisconsin, our hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) program offers the latest diagnostic and treatment techniques for this inherited disease that limits the heart’s ability to function properly. Our physicians have a level of experience and training in HCM not commonly found in Wisconsin.

We also work closely with the Marfan Syndrome Clinic at Children’s Wisconsin to coordinate care for patients with this genetic connective tissue disorder.

One of the only programs of its kind in Wisconsin, it is one of the busiest adult congenital heart disease programs in the country. We have five of only a select few physicians nationwide who are fellowship-trained to help patients make the transition from pediatric to adult care for their congenital heart disease.

Advanced Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Congenital heart disease is usually diagnosed at birth, but some cases may not be detected until later in childhood or even adulthood. There are more than 30 types of congenital heart defects, so having access to all advanced diagnostic tools and cardiac imaging tests helps physicians accurately understand each patient’s condition. The Adult Congenital Disease Program offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging and capabilities.

Optimal treatment for patients with adult CHD takes a broad range of specialists working together. Our program offers a full menu of treatment options, from the simple to the complex. Read more about the advanced treatments available for patients with adult CHD.

You may benefit from the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Webinars hosted by Children’s Wisconsin. These free educational webinars cover various health topics for all adults living with a congenital heart disease and their loved ones. Our team of providers is proud to collaborate with Children’s Wisconsin to meet the unique needs of adults with congenital heart disease.

Our Goal is Excellence in Patient Care, Research and Education

The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program has three main goals: excellent clinical care, innovative clinical research and effective patient education. We want to give our patients the best care possible throughout their lives. We also want to educate our patients about their heart condition, the long-term risks they face and how to stay healthy. And, we want to improve the lives of future generations through research. Our team is involved in numerous national research projects to continue improving care for adults with congenital heart disease. Learn more about our research studies and clinical trials.

Exceptional Staff

The Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program takes a multidisciplinary team approach, with physicians trained and experienced in treating adult CHD and structural heart disease collaborating to treat the whole patient. Meet our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program team.

Virtual Visits Are Available

Safe and convenient virtual visits by video let you get the care you need via a mobile device, tablet or computer wherever you are. We'll assess your condition and develop a treatment plan right away. To schedule a virtual visit, call 414-777-7700.

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Recognized as High Performing by U.S. News & World Report

Froedtert Hospital, Froedtert Menomonee Falls Hospital and Froedtert West Bend Hospital are recognized by U.S. News & World Report as high performing in heart failure care.