Transitioning the Pediatric Patient to the Adult Congenital Heart Disease Service

Abstract Advances in the management of pediatric patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) have led to an increased number of adults with CHD (ACHD). While many have undergone cardiac surgery, ACHD patients have premature morbidity and mortality and often die from cardiovascular events. In order to ensure appropriate follow-up for these patients, transition to a practice with experience managing ACHD patient is crucial. Ideally, these adolescents with CHD are placed on a seamless pathway for transition, but there are multiple barriers to this at the patient, provider, and health system levels. Repeated patient and family education is one intervention that has been shown to improve follow-up and cardiovascular outcomes.
Source: Current Pediatrics Reports - Category: Pediatrics Source Type: research