Conditions

Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program

Congenital Heart Defects

What is Adult Congenital Heart Disease?

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is any heart defect that is present at birth. Because of surgical and medical advancements, about 90 percent of children who have surgery for CHD survive to adulthood. In the United States, an estimated 1 million adults are living with CHD. Though many adults with CHD may feel well, many have a poor understanding of their condition; they are at risk for serious complications and need regular follow-up care for life. Our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program provides specialized, comprehensive care and helps teach patients how to stay healthy.

There are many kinds of congenital heart defects, and they generally fall into these categories:

Septal defects or “holes” inside or outside the heart that cause blood to detour or take an abnormal route
Obstructive defects that impede blood flow within the heart or the great vessels near it
Cyanotic defects that occur when blood pumped from the heart has a reduced level of oxygen (cyanosis)
Other developmental defects, such as being born with only one ventricle

Adults with CHD may have no symptoms, or they may be at risk for complications such as rhythm problems, heart failure, residual holes, valve problems, high blood pressure and aneurysms.

Many other non-cardiac concerns can arise for adults with CHD, such as:

Hearing and vision problems
Lung problems
Difficulties in obtaining health and life insurance
Pregnancy risks
Birth control questions
Exercise restrictions
Learning disabilities

These problems all can have a major impact on a patient’s quality of life. Our Adult Congenital Heart Disease staff is experienced in helping patients deal with these issues. Below is a list of some of the more common congenital heart defects treated by our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program: