Caring for the Critically Ill Adult Congenital Heart Disease Patient

AbstractPurpose of ReviewThis review aims to discuss the unique challenges that adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) patients present in the intensive care unit.Recent FindingsRecent studies suggest that ACHD patients make up an increasing number of ICU admissions, and that their care greatly improves in centers with specialized ACHD care. Common reasons for admission include arrhythmia, hemorrhage, heart failure, and pulmonary disease.SummaryIt is critical that the modern intensivist understand not only the congenital anatomy and subsequent repairs an ACHD patient has undergone, but also how that anatomy can predispose the patient to critical illness. Additionally, intensivists should rely on a multidisciplinary team, which includes an ACHD specialist, in the care of these patients.
Source: Current Cardiology Reports - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research