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Background Adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) have been considered potentially high risk for novel coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) mortality or other complications. Objectives This study sought to define the impact of COVID-19 in adults with CHD and to identify risk factors associated with adverse outcomes. Methods Adults (age 18 years or older) with CHD and with confirmed or clinically suspected COVID-19 were included from CHD centers worldwide. Data collection included anatomic diagnosis and subsequent interventions, comorbidities, medications, echocardiographic findings, presenting symptoms, course of illness, and outcomes. Predictors of death or severe infection were determined. Results From 58 adult CHD centers, the study included 1,044 infected patients (age: 35.1 ± 13.0 years; range 18 to 86 years; 51% women), 87% of whom had laboratory-confirmed coronavirus infection. The cohort included 118 (11%) patients with single ventricle and/or Fontan physiology, 87 (8%) patients with cyanosis, and 73 (7%) patients with pulmonary hypertension. There were 24 COVID-related deaths (case/fatality: 2.3%; 95% confidence interval: 1.4% to 3.2%). Factors associated with death included male sex, diabetes, cyanosis, pulmonary hypertension, renal insufficiency, and previous hospital admission for heart failure. Worse physiological stage was associated with mortality (p = 0.001), whereas anatomic complexity or defect group were not. Conclusions COVID-19 mortality in adults with CHD is commensurate with the general population. The most vulnerable patients are those with worse physiological stage, such as cyanosis and pulmonary hypertension, whereas anatomic complexity does not appear to predict infection severity., Central Illustration

ObjectivePregnancy in women with aortic coarctation (CoA) has an estimated moderately increased risk (mWHO II–III) of adverse cardiovascular, obstetric or fetal events, but prospective data to validate this risk classification are scarce. We examined pregnancy outcomes and identified associations with adverse outcomes.MethodsPregnancies in women with CoA were selected from the worldwide prospective Registry of Pregnancy and Cardiac Disease (ROPAC, n=303 out of 5739), part of the European Society of Cardiology EURObservational Research Programme. The frequency of and associations with major adverse cardiac events (MACE) and hypertensive disorders (pregnancy-induced hypertension, (pre-)eclampsia or haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome) were analysed.ResultsOf 303 pregnancies (mean age 30 years, pregnancy duration 39 weeks), 9.6% involved unrepaired CoA and 27.1% were in women with pre-existing hypertension. No maternal deaths or aortic dissections occurred. MACE occurred in 13 pregnancies (4.3%), of which 10 cases were of heart failure (3.3%). Univariable associations with MACE included prepregnancy clinical signs of heart failure (OR 31.8, 95% CI 6.8 to 147.7), left ventricular ejection fraction 1 (OR 11.4, 95% CI 3.6 to 36.3) and cardiac medication use (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.3 to 18.3). Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy occurred in 16 (5.3%), cardiac medication use being their only predictor (OR 3.2, 95% CI 1.1 to 9.6). Premature births were 9.1%, caesarean section was performed in 49.7% of pregnancies. Of 4 neonatal deaths, 3 were after spontaneous extreme preterm birth.ConclusionsThe ROPAC data show low MACE and hypertensive disorder rates during pregnancy in women with CoA, suggesting pregnancy to be more safe and better tolerated than previously appreciated.

Introduction:Thrombocytopaenia is common in adults with cyanotic heart disease. Our aim was to explore potential mechanisms for thrombocytopaenia in these vulnerable patients.Methods:Adults with cyanotic heart defects were identified from our clinical database. Haemoglobin levels, platelet counts, and resting oxygen saturations were determined at baseline and during follow-up. Associations between patient characteristics and cardiac physiology with these parameters at baseline and during follow-up were analysed using regression models. Survival estimates were determined by the Kaplan–Meier method.Results:We included 79 patients (mean age 32.2 ± 12.4, 48 (61%) Eisenmenger syndrome, 20 (25%) Down syndrome). Mean oxygen saturation was 84.1 ± 5.9%; 38 (48%) had thrombocytopaenia. There was a strong inverse correlation between platelet count and haemoglobin level (R = −0.655, R2 = 0.429, p < 0.0001) and a weaker but significant positive correlation between platelet count and oxygen saturation (R = 0.345, R2 = 0.119, p = 0.002). There was a significant inverse correlation between decrease in platelet count and increase in haemoglobin level during follow-up (R = −0.401, R2 = 0.161, p = 0.001) but not to changes in oxygen saturation (R = 0.043, R2 = 0.002, p = 0.726). Survival estimates were lower for patients with thrombocytopaenia at baseline (log-rank test p < 0.0001).Conclusions:Our findings suggest a direct inverse correlation between platelet counts and haemoglobin levels in adults with cyanotic heart disease. Further studies are required to explore the mechanisms of thrombocytopaenia in cyanotic heart disease and its potential role as an independent marker of risk.

Background Little is known about the prevalence of structural brain abnormalities and cognitive functioning in the growing population of patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD). Thus, our aim was to assess structural abnormalities on brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their association with intelligence quotient (IQ) in ACHD patients. Methods Cross-sectional study in ACHD patients and healthy controls as comparison group. Brain MRI was performed on a 3 T MR scanner, and inspection of structural abnormalities was performed blinded to ACHD or control status. IQ was estimated using the vocabulary and matrix reasoning subtests from the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition. Results A total number of 67 (55% males) ACHD patients and 55 (51% males) controls were included (mean age 26.9 and 26.0 years respectively). Abnormalities on brain MRI were detected in 29 of 46 (63%) ACHD patients and in none of the controls. Abnormalities consisted of focal infarction or atrophy, white matter lesions, microhemorrhages, and global atrophy. Mean estimated IQ was significantly lower in ACHD patients than in controls (98.51 versus 104.38; 95% CI: −10.09 to −1.66; P value = 0.007). Comparison between patients with and without cerebral abnormalities revealed no significant difference in estimated IQ. Conclusion Our findings indicate a high prevalence and wide spectrum of structural brain abnormalities in ACHD patients. Furthermore, this population is at a higher risk of impaired intellectual functioning than healthy controls. However, the present study could not establish a statistically significant association between MRI findings and estimated IQ. Clinical trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04041557 ; URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04041557?term=NCT04041557&rank=1 .

Background The arterial switch operation (ASO) for repair of transposition of the great arteries (TGA) requires transection of the great arterial trunks and re-implantation of the coronary arteries into the neoaortic root resulting in cardiac sympathetic denervation which may affect myocardial blood flow (MBF) regulation. The aims of the present study were to evaluate sympathetic (re-)innervation in young adults after ASO and its impact on MBF. Methods Twelve patients (age 22.5 ± 2.6 years) after ASO for TGA in the neonatal period and ten healthy controls (age 22.0 ± 1.7 years) were included. Positron emission tomography (PET) was used for measuring cardiac sympathetic innervation with [11C]meta-hydroxyephedrine (mHED) and MBF with [15O]H2O PET at rest, during adenosine stimulation, and during sympathetic stimulation with cold pressor test. Cold pressor-induced MBF response capacity was calculated as maximal global MBF over peak rate-pressure product multiplied by 10′000. Results Global [11C]mHED uptake was significantly lower in patients compared to controls (7.0 ± 2.3 versus 11.8 ± 2.1%/min, p Conclusions With only partial sympathetic re-innervation of the coronary arteries, maximal dilator capacity of the coronary microvasculature and cold pressor-induced MBF response capacity remain substantially impaired in young adults after ASO compared to healthy controls.

Background: Long-term outcomes in adults with prior arterial switch operation (ASO) have not yet been well defined. The aim of this study is to elucidate incidence and predictors of adverse cardiac outcomes in a prospectively followed cohort of adults after their ASO. Methods: The comprehensive long-term follow up of adults with ASO is a project within the European collaboration for prospective outcome research in congenital heart disease (EPOCH). It is designed as a prospective, international multicenter cohort study. Consecutive patients (age ≥ 16 years) with prior ASO will be included at 11 European tertiary care centers. Participants will be followed according to a standardized protocol following international recommendations, including standardized protocols for imaging and for exercise testing. Results: Main outcome measures are all-cause and cardiac-related mortality, rate of cardiac re-intervention, neo-aortic dissection, myocardial infarction, stroke, infective endocarditis, sustained atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, new-onset or worsening pulmonary hypertension or heart failure. Secondary endpoints are frequency and progression of right ventricular outflow stenosis, neo-aortic root dilatation, neo-aortic valve regurgitation and ventricular dysfunction. The impact of demographic, anatomic (e.g., coronary artery anato-my) and functional variables on the above-mentioned outcomes, as well as quality of life and incidence of pregnancy related complications will also be assessed. Conclusion: The prospective, international, multicenter EPOCH-ASO study will provide a better understanding of adverse outcomes and their predictors in adults after ASO. The results of the EPOCH-ASO study may help to optimize future care of this novel patient cohort in adult cardiology.

Adult survivors with congenital heart disease are not cured and residual cardiac valve lesions are common and contribute substantially to long-term morbidity. Given the increased risk of reoperations in patients with previous cardiac surgery, percutaneous treatment options have been developed. Initially percutaneous therapies focused on right ventricular outflow tract lesions, but they have now expanded to include mitral and aortic valve interventions. Although some of these procedures, such as balloon valvuloplasty of pulmonary valve stenosis and percutaneous pulmonary valve replacement, have become standard of care, there are many new and evolving technologies that will likely become important treatment strategies over the coming decade. The key for success of these transcatheter valve procedures is the careful evaluation of the patient's individual anatomy and physiology and a multidisciplinary assessment involving cardiologists specialized in adult congenital heart disease, specialized imagers, cardiac surgeons, and interventionalists. Because many of these percutaneous interventions are relatively new, long-term outcomes are not yet well defined, dictating the need for careful and structured long-term observational studies on outcomes of these novel procedures, which will allow refining the indications of a specific intervention and to improve its technical aspects. The aim of this article is to provide an overview of common valve lesions in the adult congenital heart disease population and to discuss treatment options and strategies with a specific focus on percutaneous options.

Background:Infective endocarditis is a major threat after prosthetic pulmonary valve replacement. Early diagnosis may improve outcomes.Methods:A structured patient education programme for prevention and early diagnosis of infective endocarditis was developed at our institution since 2016. Time delay between onset of symptoms of prosthetic pulmonary valve endocarditis and its diagnosis (defined as initiation of appropriate high-dose intravenous antibiotic treatment) was compared for patients presenting before (cohort 1) and after (cohort 2) initiation of the patient education programme.Results:Between 2008–2019, 26 patients (median age 24.9, range: 16.8–62.0 years, 73% male) were diagnosed with prosthetic pulmonary valve endocarditis, 13 patients (cohort 1) before (1.7 cases/year) and 13 patients (cohort 2) after June 2016 (3.7 cases/year). There were no differences in baseline characteristics or clinical presentation between the study cohorts. Overall, the median delay between onset of symptoms and diagnosis of infective endocarditis was 6 days (range: 0–133 days) with a significantly longer delay among patients in cohort 1, compared to cohort 2 (25 days, range: 5–133 days versus 3 days, range: 0–13 days, p < 0.0001). A delay of >7 days was documented in 11/13 patients (85%) in cohort 1 as compared to 1/13 (8%) in cohort 2 (p < 0.001). Need for urgent valve replacement or permanent deterioration of prosthetic valve function was higher in cohort 1, compared to cohort 2 (11/13, 85% versus 5/13, 39%; p = 0.041).Conclusions:Prosthetic pulmonary valve endocarditis is increasingly recognised. A structured patient education programme may improve early diagnosis and clinical outcomes.

Background: Left ventricular noncompaction cardiomyopathy (LVNC CMP) is a genetic cardiomyopathy. Genotype-phenotype correlation and clinical outcome of genetic variants in pediatric and adult LVNC CMP patients are still unclear.Methods: The retrospective multicenter study was conducted in unrelated index patients with LVNC CMP, diagnosed between the years 1987 and 2017, and all available family members. All index patients underwent next-generation sequencing for genetic variants in 174 target genes using the Illumina TruSight Cardio Sequencing Panel. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) included mechanical circulatory support, heart transplantation, survivor of cardiac death, and/or all-cause death as combined endpoint.Results: Study population included 149 LVNC CMP patients with a median age of 27.8 (9.2–44.8) years at diagnosis; 58% of them were symptomatic, 18% suffered from non-sustained and sustained arrhythmias, and 17% had an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) implanted. 55/137 patients (40%) were ≤ 18 years at diagnosis.A total of 134 variants were identified in 87/113 (77%) index patients. 93 variants were classified as variant of unknown significance (VUS), 24 as likely pathogenic and 15 as pathogenic. The genetic yield of (likely) pathogenic variants was 35/113 (31%) index patients. Variants occurred most frequently in MYH7 (n=19), TTN (n = 10) and MYBPC3 (n = 8). Altogether, sarcomere gene variants constituted 42.5% (n = 57) of all variants. The presence or absence of (likely) pathogenic variants or variants in specific genes did not allow risk stratification for MACE.Reduced left ventricular (LV) systolic function and increased left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVEDD) were risk factors for event-free survival in the Kaplan-Meier analysis. Through multivariate analysis we identified reduced LV systolic function as the main risk factor for MACE. Patients with reduced LV systolic function were at a 4.6-fold higher risk for MACE.Conclusions: Genetic variants did not predict the risk of developing a MACE, neither in the pediatric nor in the adult cohort. Multivariate analysis emphasized reduced LV systolic function as the main independent factor that is elevating the risk for MACE. Genetic screening is useful for cascade screening to identify family members at risk for developing LVNC CMP.

Background:While there is evidence that cognitive impairment of children with congenital heart disease (CHD) may persist into adolescence, little is known about the spectrum of neurocognitive functioning of young adults with this disorder. The aim of this study was to assess neurocognitive functioning in a population of young adults with different types of CHD.Methods:Cross-sectional cohort study in young adults with CHD and a group-matched healthy control group. We assessed neurocognitive and general intellectual functioning with a comprehensive battery of standardised neuropsychological tests. In addition to task-based assessments, questionnaire data of executive dysfunctions in everyday life were measured with the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult Version.Results:A total of 67 patients (55% men) with CHD and 55 healthy controls (51% men) were included for analysis. Mean age at assessment was 26.9 (3.68) and 26.0 (3.32) years, respectively. The CHD group performed poorer in the domains of Executive Functions, Memory, Attention & Speed, and general intellectual functioning. Patients with a CHD of severe complexity were more affected than patients with simple or moderate complexity. Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function – Adult Version scores indicated that patients’ self-rated deficits in behaviour regulation in everyday life was higher compared with healthy controls.Conclusion:Our findings indicate lower neurocognitive functioning in young adults with a CHD, particularly in those with severe defect complexity. In view of the potentially enhanced risk for cerebrovascular and neurodegenerative disease in this patient group as reported in the literature, systematic longitudinal monitoring of cognitive functioning is recommended.

Background Patients with unrepaired cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD) suffer from aggravated hypoxemia during exercise. We tested the hypothesis that supplemental oxygen improves exercise performance in these patients. Methods In this randomized, sham-controlled, single-blind, cross-over trial cyanotic CHD-patients underwent four cycle exercise tests to exhaustion, while breathing either oxygen-enriched (FiO2 0.50, oxygen) or ambient air (FiO2 0.21, air) using incremental (IET) or constant work-rate (CWRET) exercise test protocols (75% of maximal work rate achieved under FiO2 0.21). Pulmonary gas-exchange, electrocardiogram, arterial blood gases, oxygen saturation (SpO2), cerebral and quadriceps muscle tissue oxygenation (CTO and QMTO) by near-infrared spectroscopy were measured. Results We included seven patients with cyanotic CHD (4 Eisenmenger syndrome, 3 unrepaired cyanotic defects, 4 women) median (quartiles) age 36 (32;50) years, BMI 23 (20;26) kg/m2 and SpO2 at rest 87 (83;89) %. When comparing supplemental oxygen with air during exercise, maximal work-rate in IET increased from 76 (58;114) watts to 83 (67;136) watts, median difference 9 (0;22) W (p = 0.046) and CWRET-time increased from 412 s (325;490) to 468 s (415;553), median increase 56 (39;126) s (p = 0.018). In both IET and CWRET SpO2 was significantly higher and ventilatory equivalent for carbon dioxide significantly lower at end-exercise with oxygen compared to air, whereas CTO and QMTO did not significantly differ. Conclusions Patients with cyanotic CHD significantly improved their exercise performance, in terms of maximal work-rate and endurance time along with an improved arterial oxygenation and ventilatory efficiency with supplemental oxygen compared to air.

This study aimed to evaluate age at the first onset of cardiac complications and variation of frequency of complications between different congenital heart defects.The analysis included participants of the Swiss Adult Congenital Heart Disease Registry (SACHER). For this study, cardiac complications up to the time of inclusion in SACHER were analysed. Complications included atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter, supraventricular tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, complete heart block, heart failure, stroke, endocarditis, myocardial infarction, and pulmonary hypertension. Incidence rates (IR; incidence rate per 1000 patient-years) for different age categories and diagnosis groups were analysed.Of 2731 patients (55% male, mean age 34 ± 14 years, 92,349 patient-years), a total of 767 (28%) had experienced at least 1 cardiac complication. The majority of complications (550; 72%) occurred in adulthood (18 years). Apart from perioperative stroke (IR: 1.77 in age group ≤ 4 years) and complete heart block (IR: 2.36 in age group ≤ 4 years), IR were much lower in childhood (IR1 for all complications between 5 and 17 years). Incidence of cardiac complications increased during adult life with highest IR for atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter in the age group ≥ 50 years (IR: 17.6 and 9.7, respectively). There were important variations of the distribution of complications among different diagnosis groups.Cardiac complications are frequent in congenital heart disease. Apart from perioperative stroke and complete heart block, IR are low in childhood but the incidence increases during adult life. These data underscore the need of lifelong follow-up and may help for better allocation of resources maintaining follow-up.

[Objective] Adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) may be at a higher risk of a fatal outcome in case of COVID-19. Current risk stratification among these patients relies on personal experience and extrapolation from patients with acquired heart disease. We aimed to provide an expert view on risk stratification while awaiting results from observational studies., [Methods] This study was an initiative of the EPOCH (European Collaboration for Prospective Outcome Research in Congenital Heart disease). Among nine European countries (Austria, Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Switzerland), 24 experts from 23 tertiary ACHD centres participated in the survey. ACHD experts were asked to identify ACHD-specific COVID-19 risk factors from a list of potential outcome predictors and to estimate the risk of adverse COVID-19 outcomes in seven commonly seen patient scenarios., [Results] 82% of participants did not consider all ACHD patients at risk of COVID-19 related complications. There was a consensus on pulmonary arterial hypertension, Fontan physiology and cyanotic heart disease as risk factors for adverse outcomes. Among different ACHD scenarios, a patient with Eisenmenger syndrome was considered to be at the highest risk. There was a marked variability in risk estimation among the other potential outcome predictors and ACHD scenarios., [Conclusions] Pulmonary arterial hypertension, Fontan palliation and cyanotic heart disease were widely considered as risk factors for poor outcome in COVID-19. However, there was a marked disparity in risk estimation for other clinical scenarios. We are in urgent need of outcome studies in ACHD suffering from COVID-19., EPOCH-ASO is funded by internal grants without support from the pharmaceutical industry.

Adult survivors with congenital heart disease represent rapidly evolving cohorts of complex patients that pose unique challenges to our adult cardiology clinics. These patients are at high risk of cardiovascular complications and premature death as young adults. Regular assessment at specialist centers by multidisciplinary expert teams is key to optimal management. Serial exercise testing has proven to be a powerful tool for optimal management of these patients. In this overview, the major tasks of exercise testing are reviewed. This includes prognostication and risk stratification as well, as the evaluation of specific causes of impaired exercise capacity based on analysis of the different components of cardio-pulmonary exercise testing. While peak oxygen consumption has proven to be a robust marker of outcome in adult cardiology, in patients with congenital heart disease, reference values may need to be adapted to specific congenital heart disease entities and the prognostic validity for specific patient cohorts requires further elucidation. Careful analysis of results from exercise testing often reveal important insights into the individual patient's cardiac physiology and may allow targeted interventions that improve exercise capacity and potentially outcome. This requires integration of clinical findings and findings from cardiac imaging. Occasionally, exercise testing during cardiac catheterization may reveal insights into exercise hemodynamics and may be important for decision-making, particularly for decision-making about occlusion of intra-cardiac shunts. From a research perspective, the analysis of exercise capacity and its components will enable us to make more evidence-based decisions for cardiac interventions and will allow a better understanding of prognosis.

Adults with congenital heart disease are at risk for persisting executive function deficits, which are known to affect academic achievement and quality of life. Alterations in white -matter microstructure are associated with cognitive impairments in adolescents with congenital heart disease. This study aimed to identify microstructural alterations potentially associated with executive function deficits in adults with congenital heart disease. Diffusion tensor imaging and tract-based spatial statistics were conducted in 45 patients (18 females) and 54 healthy controls (26 females) aged 18–32 years. Fractional anisotropy of white matter diffusion was compared between groups and correlated with an executive function score, derived from an extensive neuropsychological test battery. Patients showed widespread bilateral reduction in fractional anisotropy (P, As more patients with congenital heart disease are surviving into adulthood, interest mounts in the link between congenital heart disease and neurodevelopment across the lifespan. This is the first study in adults with congenital heart disease, demonstrating widespread alterations in white matter microstructure and an association with executive function deficits., Graphical Abstract Graphical Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) benefit from exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) short- and long-term with regard to improvement of cardiorespiratory fitness. Methods: Cardiopulmonary exercise tests (CPET) completed by ACHD patients between January 2000 and October 2019 were analysed retrospectively. Linear mixed models were performed for peak oxygen consumption (VO2) with patients as random effect and age, sex, disease classification, preceding surgery (≤3 months) and preceding CR (≤4 weeks for short term and >4 weeks for long term) as fixed effects. Results: 1056 CPETs of 311 ACHD patients with simple (7), moderate (188) or great (116) complexity heart defects were analysed. The 59 patients who completed a CR (median age 27 yrs, 38% females) increased peak VO2 from before to after CR by a median of 2.7 (IQR –0.6 to 5.5) ml/kg/min. However, in the multivariate mixed model, peak VO2 was non-significantly increased short-term after CR (β 0.8, 95%CI –0.7 to 2.4), not maintained long-term after CR (β 0.0, 95%CI –1.7 to 1.6) but significantly reduced after surgery (β –5.1, 95%CI –7.1 to –3.1). The 20 CR patients after surgery increased their peak VO2 by 6.2 (IQR 3.6–9.5) ml/kg/min, while the 39 CR patients without preceding surgery increased it by 0.9 (IQR –1.5 to 3.1) ml/kg/min. Conclusions: The increase in peak VO2 with CR was mainly due to recovery from surgical intervention. The small independent benefit from CR was not maintained long-term, highlighting the potential to improve current CR concepts in ACHD populations.

BACKGROUND Patients with systemic right ventricle (sRV), including transposition of great arteries (TGA) after atrial switch procedure and congenitally corrected transposition of great arteries (ccTGA), may require anticoagulation for thromboembolism (TE) prevention. In the absence of data on non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs), vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) remain the agent of choice. We investigated the safety, efficacy and feasibility of NOACs treatment in adults with sRV in a worldwide study. METHODS This is an international multicentre prospective study, using data from the NOTE registry on adults with sRV taking NOACs between 2014 and 2019. The primary endpoints were TE and major bleeding (MB). The secondary endpoint was minor bleeding. RESULTS A total of 76 patients (42.5��������10.0���years, 76% male) with sRV (74% TGA, 26% ccTGA) on NOACs were included in the study. During a median follow-up of 2.5���years (IQR1.5-3.9), TE events occurred in 3 patients (4%), while no MB episodes were reported. Minor bleeding occurred in 9 patients (12%). NOAC treatment cessation rate was 1.4% (95%CI:0.3-4%) during the first year of follow-up. All the patients with TE events had a CHA2DS2-VASc score���������2 and impaired sRV systolic function at baseline. The total incidence of major events during follow-up was significantly lower compared to historical use of VKAs or aspirin before study inclusion (1.4% (95%CI:0.29-4%) vs 6,9% (95%CI:2.5-15.2%); p���=���.01). CONCLUSIONS In this prospective study, NOACs appear to be well-tolerated, with excellent efficacy and safety at mid-term in patients with sRV.

Congenital heart disease is the most common birth defect, and patients are at risk for neurodevelopmental impairment and brain abnormalities. Yet, little is known about the link between brain volumes and cognitive function in adults with congenital heart disease. Forty-four patients and 53 controls between 18 and 32 years underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive testing, assessed with an intelligence quotient and executive function global score. Associations between brain volumes and cognitive function were calculated using linear models. Cognitive function in patients was within the normal range (intelligence quotient: 97.74 (10.76)). Total brain volume was significantly smaller in patients compared to controls (1067.26 (113.53) vs 1113.04 (97.88) cm3, P < 0.01), irrespective of cardiac factors (heart defect complexity, cyanosis, cardiopulmonary bypass: all P > 0.4). After adjusting for total brain volume, only corpus callosum volume remained significantly smaller (P = 0.03). Smaller total brain volume was associated with poorer overall executive functioning (P = 0.02) and inhibition (P P = 0.03). In adults with congenital heart disease, despite normal intelligence quotient, brain volume alterations persist into adulthood and are related to executive functioning, in particular inhibitory control. Adults coming from low socioeconomic background and with altered brain volumes are especially vulnerable and should thus be followed-up during adulthood to ensure optimal social and educational support.

Introduction Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) is a rare congenital heart disease, characterized by one or some but not all pulmonary veins anomalously connected to the right atrium or a systemic vein. PAPVC is either an isolated shunt lesion or associated with an atrial septal defect (ASD). This study compares the arrhythmic outcome of patients treated surgically with those clinically monitored. Method Clinical, surgical, imaging and invasive data of PAPVC patients were retrospectively reviewed from 7 centers from the Swiss Adult Congenital HEart disease Registry (SACHER) and one French center. Results A total of 168 patients with PAPVC were identified. Most (77%) patients underwent surgery, while the remaining (23%) ones were treated conservatively with clinical monitoring. The operated group (OG) had a significantly higher number of associated ASD (N=106, 82%) (p Age did not differ at latest follow-up (table). Holter recordings revealed a higher prevalence of arrhythmia in the OG (p=0.031), mainly of supraventricular tachyarrhythmias (table). The occurrence of ventricular non-sustained tachycardia and of bradyarrhythmia did not statistically differ between groups. Patients in the OG required more often medical treatment for arrhythmias: 12 (9%) needed electrophysiological study in the OG and none in the NOG (p=0.057). The amount of patients requiring a pacemaker implantation in the OG (11%) was significantly higher than that of NOG (0%) (p=0.039). Conclusion Patients after PAPVC repair present with a significant higher burden of arrhythmia than conservatively treated patients, either due to a larger shunt pre-operatively and/or as a late complication of the corrective surgery itself. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Unrestricted grant from Actelion, Switzerland

Introduction Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection is a rare cyanotic congenital heart disease, where all pulmonary veins aberrantly connect to a systemic vein or the right atrium. The only curative treatment is surgery allowing the patients to reach adulthood. This study describes the long-term outcome of these individuals focusing on arrhythmias. Methods Clinical, surgical, imaging and invasive data were retrospectively reviewed from 7 centers participating in the Swiss Adult Congenital Heart disease Registry (SACHER) and one French center. Results A total of 57 patients were identified and analyzed 22±8 years after surgery. At last follow-up, 21% of patients presented cardiac symptoms, mainly palpitations. No patient had pulmonary hypertension or a relevant valvulopathy. Echocardiography revealed in 5 (8.8%) patients a dilated right ventricle (RV) and in 3 (5.3%) patients a diminished RV systolic function. Exercise capacity was normal in most patients (table). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging found in 2 (4%) had a residual shunt with an mean Qp:Qs of 1.25, due to a single anomalously connected pulmonary vein. Holter recordings revealed arrhythmias in 23% of patient. Ten (17.5%) had atrial fibrillation, flutter or tachycardia. Three (5%) patients presented ventricular arrhythmias: two patients showed non-sustained ventricular tachycardia and one patient complex ventricular extrasystoles. Four patients (7%) were on antiarrhythmic medication for supraventricular arrhythmias. Three patients (5%) underwent an electrophysiological study with a mean time since surgery of 20 years. Three (5%) patients underwent pacemaker implantation within 3 weeks to 36 months after surgical correction, which were removed in 2 patients after 7 years. Age and the presence of a valvulopathy at follow-up predicted tachyarrhythmia on binomial logistic regression analysis (p Conclusions In adult survivors after TAPVC repair, supraventricular but also ventricular arrhythmias are frequently observed which appears to be related to age and valvular lesions at follow-up. This study underlies the importance of long-term follow-up as some of the patients currently without arrhythmia will probably develop rhythm disorders in the future. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Unrestricted grant by Actelion SA, Switzerland

Background Pregnancy in women with repaired aortic coarctation (CoA) has a moderately increased risk (mWHO II-III) of an adverse cardiovascular, obstetric or fetal event, but prospective data to validate this estimated risk is scarce. Purpose We examined maternal and fetal outcomes in pregnant women with unrepaired and repaired CoA to identify predictors of adverse outcomes. Methods Pregnancies in women with CoA were selected from the worldwide prospective Registry of Pregnancy and Cardiac Disease (ROPAC, n=5739). The frequency and predictors of major adverse cardiac events (MACE, defined as maternal cardiac death, heart failure, atrial fibrillation/flutter, ventricular tachyarrhythmia, endocarditis, thromboembolic events, aortic dissection and acute coronary syndrome), and hypertensive complications (defined as pregnancy-induced hypertension, (pre)eclampsia or HELLP syndrome) were analyzed. Results Of 303 pregnancies in women with CoA (median age 30 years, median pregnancy duration 39 weeks), 10% were in women with unrepaired CoA and 27% in women with pre-existing hypertension. There were no maternal deaths. There were 4 neonatal deaths of which 3 occurred after a spontaneous extreme preterm birth. MACE occurred in 4.3% of pregnancies, predominantly involving heart failure (3.3%). MACE rate was similar in unrepaired vs repaired CoA (3.4% vs 4.4%, p=0.814). Predictors of MACE included pre-pregnancy clinical signs of heart failure (OR 31.8, 95% CI 6.8–147.7), LVEF 1 (OR 11.4, 95% CI 3.6–36.3), cardiac medication use (OR 4.9, 95% CI 1.3–18.3) and living in an emerging country (OR 4.88, 95% CI 1.58–15.07). Hypertensive complications occurred in 6.3%, more often in the subgroup with pre-existing hypertension (11% vs 5%, p=0.040). Pre-existing hypertension was the only predictor (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.01–6.6). Caesarean section was performed in 50% of the total cohort. Conclusions Pregnancies in women with CoA are safe, well tolerated and MACE and hypertensive complication rates are low. These findings support mWHO risk score reevaluation to mWHO II for women with CoA without cardiac impairment. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Foundation. Main funding source(s): ESC EURObservational Research Programme (EORP)

Introduction Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) is a rare congenital heart disease, which is characterized by one or some but not all pulmonary veins anomalously connected to the right atrium or a systemic vein. PAPVC is either an isolated shunt lesion or associated with an atrial septal defect (ASD). The only curative treatment is surgery, however the indication for surgery can be challenging. This study compares the outcome of patients treated surgically with those clinically monitored. Method Clinical, surgical, imaging and invasive data were retrospectively reviewed from 7 centers from the Swiss Adult Congenital HEart Registry (SACHER) and a French center. Results A total of 168 patients with partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection were identified. The majority (77%) of patients underwent surgery and the remaining (23%) were treated conservatively with clinical monitoring. The operated group (OG) had a significantly higher proportion of associated ASD (N=106, 82%) (p Latest follow-up was 12 years after surgery. Mean age was 40±17 years. Patients in the non-operated group (NOG) were significantly more dyspneic than the OG (p=0.002). However, the need for medical treatment did not differ between groups: 58% of the NOG and 48% in the OG (p=0.203). Right ventricular (RV) ejection fraction did not differ between groups despite a significantly larger RV end-diastolic volume and a higher Qp:Qs on cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) in the NOG (table). On echocardiography, the NOG showed a significantly better right ventricular longitudinal function and a higher systolic pulmonary artery pressure than the OG (table). The prevalence of significant valvulopathies did not differ between groups (table). Both groups had normal exercise capacity and with no differences between groups (table). Eighteen (14%) OG patients required a re-intervention either for residual shunt and/or stenosis of the pulmonary veins, superior and inferior vena cava. Conclusion PAPVC patients after surgical correction, show a favorable outcome in terms of imaging parameters and exercise capacity, however, a significant number presents with symptoms. PAPVC patients treated conservatively with small left to right shunting, have similar outcome justifying a conservative approach. Funding Acknowledgement Type of funding source: Private grant(s) and/or Sponsorship. Main funding source(s): Unrestricted grant from Actelion, Switzerland

Learning objectives Simple shunt lesions are among the most common forms of congenital heart disease.1 Depending on location and size of the shunts, haemodynamic effects and presentation vary considerably. For example, while haemodynamically relevant ventricular septal defects (VSDs) nowadays typically are managed during childhood, atrial septal defects (ASDs) often escape diagnosis in childhood and many patients are diagnosed in adult life.2 Therefore, general cardiologists are frequently confronted with diagnosis and management of interatrial communications. This article focuses on anatomy, pathophysiology, natural history and common complications of simple shunt lesions; discusses imaging techniques and invasive procedures to diagnose and manage ASDs and VSDs and provides a practical algorithm on how to manage patients with ASDs with and without pulmonary hypertension. ### Atrial septal defects #### ​Anatomy of ASDs ASD are defined as direct communications on the atrial level. The ostium secundum ASD (figure 1A1) is located within the fossa ovalis but may extend in any direction. In contrast to a patent foramen ovale (PFO), which is a flap-valve of tissue formed by the septum primum and septum secundum, an ostium secundum ASD is characterised by a true tissue defect of variable size. Occasionally, there may be multiple defects or a combination of an ostium secundum ASD in addition to a PFO with or without an associated atrial septal aneurysm. Figure 1 Anatomy and haemodynamic consequences of simple shunt lesions. Panels (1A and 1B) anatomy of secundum atrial septal defects and haemodynamic consequences of relevant left-to-right shunting in interatrial communications. Panels (2A and 2B) anatomy of muscular ventricular septal defects and haemodynamic consequences of relevant left-to-right shunting. Panels (3A and 3B) anatomy of patent ductus arteriosus and the …

Survival prospects in adults with congenital heart disease (CHD), although improved in recent decades, still remain below expectations for the general population. Patients and their loved ones benefit from preparation for both unexpected and predictable deaths, sometimes preceded by a prolonged period of declining health. Hence, advance care planning (ACP) is an integral part of comprehensive care for adults with CHD. This position paper summarizes evidence regarding benefits of and patients' preferences for ACP and provides practical advice regarding the implementation of ACP processes within clinical adult CHD practice. We suggest that ACP be delivered as a structured process across different stages, with content dependent upon the anticipated disease progression. We acknowledge potential barriers to initiate ACP discussions and emphasize the importance of a sensitive and situation-specific communication style. Conclusions presented in this article reflect agreed expert opinions and include both patient and provider perspectives. ispartof: EUROPEAN HEART JOURNAL vol:41 issue:43 pages:4200-4210 ispartof: location:England status: published

Background: Current guidelines consider vitamin K antagonists (VKA) the oral anticoagulant agents of choice in adults with atrial arrhythmias (AA) and moderate or complex forms of congenital heart disease, significant valvular lesions, or bioprosthetic valves, pending safety data on non-VKA oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Therefore, the international NOTE registry was initiated to assess safety, change in adherence and quality of life (QoL) associated with NOACs in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD). Methods: An international multicenter prospective study of NOACs in ACHD was established. Follow-up occurred at 6 months and yearly thereafter. Primary endpoints were thromboembolism and major bleeding. Secondary endpoints included minor bleeding, change in therapy adherence (≥80% medication refill rate, ≥6 out of 8 on Morisky-8 questionnaire) and QoL (SF-36 questionnaire). Results: In total, 530 ACHD patients (mean age 47 SD 15 years; 55% male) with predominantly moderate or complex defects (85%), significant valvular lesions (46%) and/or bioprosthetic valves (11%) using NOACs (rivaroxaban 43%; apixaban 39%; dabigatran 12%; edoxaban 7%) were enrolled. The most common indication was AA (91%). Over a median follow-up of 1.0 [IQR 0.0–2.0] year, thromboembolic event rate was 1.0% [95%CI 0.4–2.0] (n = 6) per year, with 1.1% [95%CI 0.5–2.2] (n = 7) annualized rate of major bleeding and 6.3% [95%CI 4.5–8.5] (n = 37) annualized rate of minor bleeding. Adherence was sufficient during 2 years follow-up in 80–93% of patients. At 1-year follow-up, among the subset of previous VKA-users who completed the survey (n = 33), QoL improved in 6 out of 8 domains (p ≪ 0.05). Conclusions: Initial results from our worldwide prospective study suggest that NOACs are safe and may be effective for thromboembolic prevention in adults with heterogeneous forms of congenital heart disease., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

Background: The risk for a severe disease course in case of infection with SARS-CoV-2 in young adults with congenital heart disease is largely unknown, potentially leading to uncertainty and anxiety among affected patients. This study aims to investigate health-related concerns, health-related quality of life and psychological adjustment in patients with congenital heart disease compared to healthy peers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: One-hundred patients with congenital heart disease and 50 controls (M = 29.7, SD = 3.8 years) were recruited. They completed an online survey including the assessment of health-related concerns regarding COVID-19, the 12-item Short Form Health Survey and the Brief Symptom Inventory. Results: Patients considered COVID-19 to be a more serious issue (Generalized odds ratio [GenOR] = 1.67, p = 0.04), were more concerned about becoming infected (GenOR = 2.93, p < 0.001) and expressed more fear about leaving their homes (GenOR = 1.81, p = 0.004) while general anxiety symptoms were not different between groups (p = 0.23). Patients relied more on family and friends for support (30% vs. 2% in controls, p < 0.001) and reported better compliance with protective measures (p = 0.03). Mental health-related quality of life and psychological adjustment were not different between groups (p = 0.17 and p = 0.68, respectively). Physical health-related quality of life was lower in patients compared to controls (p = 0.03). Conclusions: Young adults with congenital heart disease in Switzerland are more concerned about their health during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to healthy peers. These concerns, however, do not translate into generally impaired mental wellbeing. The impact of the easing of lockdown measures on long-term anxiety levels and quality of life requires further study

The Ross procedure offers excellent short-term outcome but the long-term durability is under debate. Reinterventions and follow-up of 100 consecutive patients undergoing Ross Procedure at our centre (1993–2011) were analysed. Follow-up was available for 96 patients (97%) with a median duration of 5.3 (0.1–17.1) years. Median age of the patient cohort was 15.2 (0.04–58.4) years with 76 males. 93% had underlying congenital aortic stenosis. Root replacement technique was applied in all. The most common valved conduits used for reconstruction of the right ventricular outflow tract were homografts (66 patients) and bovine jugular vein (ContegraR) graft (31 patients). Additional procedures included Ross–Konno procedure (14%), resection of subaortic stenosis/myectomy (11%) and reduction plasty of the ascending aorta (25%). One patient died within the first 30 days (1%). Late deaths occurred in 4 patients (4%) 0.5–4.5 years postoperatively: causes included pulmonary hypertension due to endocardial fibroelastosis (2), subarachnoid haemorrhage (1) and sudden cardiac death (1). Five-year survival was 93.6 (95% CI 88.1–99.1)%. Moderate or severe aortic (autograft) regurgitation needing reoperation occurred in 8 patients with a 5-year freedom from autograft reoperation of 98.5 (95.6–100)%. Five-year freedom from reintervention (surgery or catheter based) on the right ventricular outflow tract conduit was 91.5 (85.5–96.5)%. Univariate predictors of this reinterventions were smaller graft size (p = 0.03) and use of a ContegraR graft (p = 0.04). Ross procedure can be performed with low mortality and good survival in the long term. Most of the reinterventions are related to the neo-right ventricular outflow tract and may be partly attributed to the lack of growth. While the Ross Procedure remains an invaluable option for aortic valve disease in children, new solutions for the neo-pulmonary valve as well as for the less often occurring problems on the autograft are needed.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess indications, procedural success, complications, echocardiographic, and clinical outcomes of percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation (PPVI) in adult patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). BACKGROUND: PPVI offers a non-surgical treatment option for failing prosthetic conduits in pulmonary position. However, efficacy and clinical outcomes after PPVI are still underreported. METHODS: From January 2008 to March 2016, 25 adult CHD patients with right ventricular outflow tract (RVOT) stenosis and/or pulmonary regurgitation underwent PPVI in our institution. Clinical and echocardiographic data was collected at baseline, at 12 months of follow-up and yearly afterwards. RESULTS: Tetralogy of Fallot and repaired pulmonary atresia were among the most prevalent underlying congenital defects. Twenty-one (84%) received a Medtronic Melody® and four (16%) patients an Edwards Sapien valve prosthesis. The PPVI procedure was successful in all 25 patients. Pre-stenting was performed in all but two (8%) patients. PPVI reduced peak-to-peak pulmonary valve gradient from 43 (IQR 28-60) mmHg to 16 (IQR 14-22) mmHg (P

Background In Fontan patients with atrial arrhythmias (AA), non-Vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants(NOACs) have a class III recommendation according to the Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society (PACES)/Heart Rhythm Society (HRS) guideline in 2014, due to lack of data on outcomes as opposed to evidence of harm. To address this gap in data, we investigated the safety and efficacy of NOACs in adults with a Fontan circulation in a worldwide study. Methods This is an international multicentre prospective cohort study, using data from the NOTE (non-Vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants for thromboembolic prevention in patients with congenital heart disease) registry. The study population comprised consecutive adults with a Fontan circulation using NOACs. Follow-up took place at 6 months and yearly thereafter. The primary endpoints were thromboembolism and major bleeding. Secondary endpoint was minor bleeding. Results From April 2014 onward, 74 patients (mean age 32±10 years (range 18-68), 54% male) with a Fontan circulation using NOACs were included. During a median follow-up of 1.2 (IQR 0.8-2.0) years, three thromboembolic events (2.9 per 100 patient-years (95% CI 0.7 to 7.6)) and three major bleedings (2.9 per 100 patient-years (95% CI 0.7 to 7.6)) occurred in five atriopulmonary Fontan and one total cavopulmonary connection Fontan patients with AA. Fifteen patients experienced minor bleeding episodes (15.8 per 100 patient-years (95% CI 9.1 to 25.2)). In patients (n=37) using Vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) prior to the initiation of NOAC, annual incidence of historical thromboembolic events and major bleeding were 2.4% (95% CI 0.4% to 7.4%) (n = 2) and 1.2% (95% CI 0.7% to 5.1%) (n = 1), respectively. Conclusions In this review of the largest Fontan cohort using NOACs with prospective follow-up, NOACs appear to be well tolerated and their efficacy and safety during short-term follow-up seem comparable to VKAs. Longer term data are required to confirm these promising short-term results., SCOPUS: ar.j, info:eu-repo/semantics/published

A rapidly growing novel cohort of adults with complex congenital heart disease is evolving, many of them at high risk for cardiovascular complications and premature death as young adults. Although there is progress with medical and surgical treatment, caregivers will be inevitably confronted with an increasing number of patients dying under their care. Given their young age, these patients are at high risk of receiving (overly) aggressive or even futile treatments before their demise.

Trisomy 21 (T21) is associated in 40-45% of cases with heart defects, most commonly shunt lesions. These defects, if not repaired, can lead to irreversible shunt-induced pulmonary hypertension (i.e. Eisenmenger syndrome [ES]). In ES patients, intracardiac repair is no longer possible, but selective pulmonary vasodilators may increase exercise capacity and improve prognosis. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of cardiac defects and ES in adult T21 patients and to assess the impact of T21 on treatment modalities and outcome in ES patients. A questionnaire was sent to 6906 Swiss physicians inviting them to indicate the number of adults with T21 under their care (survey report). We also analyzed all adults with ES (with and without T21) included in the Swiss Adult Congenital HEart disease Registry (SACHER) and studied the impact of T21 on the use of selective pulmonary vasodilators and survival. In the survey, 348 physicians cared for 695 adult T21 patients. Overall, 24% of T21 survey patients were known to have a cardiac defect, one in four with a defect had developed ES and 13% of those with ES were on specific pulmonary vasodilators. In SACHER, ES was present in 2% of adults with congenital heart disease and selective pulmonary vasodilators were used in 68% of ES patients with T21. In SACHER, survival during follow-up was worse with higher nt-proBNP levels (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.15 per 1000 units, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.02-1.29) and lower left ventricular ejection fraction (HR = 1.07 per percent decrease, 95% CI = 1.01-1.13). Age at inclusion and T21 did not affect survival. The prevalence of cardiac defects in adults with T21 in Switzerland is half the prevalence in children. T21 is over-represented among adults with ES. Raised awareness of the therapeutic options for T21 patients with ES is warranted.

Highlights • Congenital heart disease (CHD) patients are at risk for developmental impairments. • CHD patients have a higher rate of motor impairments compared to controls. • Fractional anisotropy of the corticospinal tract (FA CST) is lower in CHD patients. • Lower FA CST is associated with poorer motor function in patients with complex CHD. • Altered primary motor pathway development may lead to motor impairments in CHD., Congenital heart disease (CHD) patients are at risk for neurodevelopmental impairments, including altered motor function. However, little is known about the neuroanatomical correlates of persistent motor deficits in CHD. Thus, we examined the link between corticospinal tract (CST) microstructure and motor function in adolescent and adult CHD patients compared to healthy controls. This study investigated 89 CHD patients (N(adolescents) = 47, N(adults) = 42, mean age = 19.9 years) and 97 age-matched healthy controls (N(adolescents) = 44, N(adults) = 53, mean age = 20.6 years). Diffusion tensor imaging was conducted and fractional anisotropy (FA) of the left and right CST was extracted for each participant. Fine (pegboard) and pure motor (repeated finger, hand and foot movements) performance was evaluated with a standardized test battery. FA and motor performance were correlated and the effect of CHD complexity was tested using multivariate linear regression. Clinically relevant motor impairments (>2SD below normative mean) were evident in 24% of patients and 9% of controls. On average, motor performance was lower in CHD patients compared to controls, particularly in those with more complex CHD (fine motor: p = 0.023; pure motor: p

Pulmonary autograft replacement (Ross procedure) is used as an alternative to prosthetic aortic valve replacement patients with aortic valve disease. There are limited data on incidence and risk factors for dilatation and dysfunction of the neo-aortic after the Ross procedure. Ross procedure was performed in 100 patients at our institution between 1993 and 2011. In 76 patients, complete follow-up data were available. Their median age at surgery was 16 (0.4-58) years (76 % males; 95 % with congenital aortic valve disease). Median follow-up duration was 5.2 years (0.3-16.0 years). We analyzed their clinical and echocardiographic follow-up to identify possible risk factors for neo-aortic root dilatation and dysfunction. Ross procedure included reduction plasty of the native ascending aorta in 25 % of patients. During follow-up, 21 patients (28 %) developed neo-aortic root dilatation, 38 patients (50 %) dilatation oft the native ascending aorta and 7 patients (9 %) at least moderate neo-aortic regurgitation. Univariate risk factors for neo-aortic root dilatation were preoperative aortic regurgitation (p = 0.04), concomitant reduction plasty of the ascending aorta (p = 0.009) and a longer duration of follow-up (p = 0.005). Younger age at surgery was associated with dilatation of the ascending aorta (p = 0.03). Reoperation on the neo-aortic root because of severe dilatation was necessary in 6 patients (8 %), where 2 patients had at least moderate neo-aortic root regurgitation. Neo-aortic root and aortic dilatation are common after the Ross procedure. This is often combined with neo-aortic valve dysfunction. Close follow-up of these patients is mandatory.

OBJECTIVE High altitude-related hypoxia induces pulmonary vasoconstriction. In Fontan patients without a contractile subpulmonary ventricle, an increase in pulmonary artery pressure is expected to decrease circulatory output and reduce exercise capacity. This study investigates the direct effects of short-term high altitude exposure on pulmonary blood flow (PBF) and exercise capacity in Fontan patients. METHODS 16 adult Fontan patients (mean age 28±7 years, 56% female) and 14 matched controls underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing with measurement of PBF with a gas rebreathing system at 540 m (low altitude) and at 3454 m (high altitude) within 12 weeks. RESULTS PBF at rest and at exercise was higher in controls than in Fontan patients, both at low and high altitude. PBF increased twofold in Fontan patients and 2.8-fold in the control group during submaximal exercise, with no significant difference between low and high altitude (p=0.290). A reduction in peak oxygen uptake at high compared with low altitude was observed in Fontan patients (22.8±5.1 and 20.5±3.8 mL/min/kg, p

OBJECTIVES: The atria serve as reservoir, conduit, and active pump for ventricular filling. The performance of the atrial baffles after atrial switch repair for transposition of the great arteries may be abnormal and impact the function of the systemic right ventricle. We sought to assess atrial function in patients after atrial repair in comparison to patients after arterial switch repair (ASO) and to controls. METHODS: Using magnetic resonance imaging, atrial volumes and functional parameters were measured in 17 patients after atrial switch repair, 9 patients after ASO and 10 healthy subjects. RESULTS: After the atrial switch operation, the maximum volume of the pulmonary venous atrium was significantly enlarged, but not of the systemic venous atrium. In both patients groups, independently from the surgical technique used, the minimum atrial volumes were elevated, which resulted in a decreased total empting fraction compared with controls (P

More than 90% of children born with heart defects reach adulthood. They continue to require specialized medical care. In most countries, their care has to be transferred from the pediatric care environment to specialized adult clinics. This transfer of care usually occurs at a time when adolescents become young adults. Supporting adolescents and emerging adults with congenital heart disease through transition has been recognized as an important task of their treating teams in recent years. An environment where adolescents feel welcome and where education and patient participation are fostered is crucial. For an optimal transition process, patients, their families and all health care providers need to be involved. Different models for transition programs have emerged, depending on local policies and resources. The authors offer insight into established transition programs in Bern and Zurich, Switzerland. Advantages and challenges of different models of care and transition programs are presented.

Aims: The aim of this study was to identify medical and psychosocial risk factors for impaired health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and poor psychological adjustment (PA) in young adults with congenital heart disease (CHD). Methods and Results: A group of 188 patients (43% females, ages 18-30 years) with various types of CHD and 139 age-matched healthy controls (57% females) completed questionnaires assessing HRQoL, PA, social support, significant life events in the past year, education level, civil status, and employment status. Medical variables were retrieved from the patients' hospital records. Patients reported worse physical HRQoL than controls but similar mental HRQoL and PA. Female CHD patients showed worse physical and mental HRQoL and poorer PA than males. In CHD patients, a lower educational level and lower physical exercise capacity predicted lower physical HRQoL, but complexity of CHD was not related to HRQoL or PA. Less social support was associated with lower mental HRQoL and poorer PA in CHD patients. Conclusion: Young adults with CHD have impaired physical HRQoL but normal mental HRQoL and PA. Lower physical exercise capacity, female sex, less social support and lower educational level predict an unfavorable quality of life and PA. This subgroup of patients should be monitored more closely and provided with special psychosocial care to improve long-term outcome.

Inherited epidermolysis bullosa (EB) comprises rare heterogeneous disorders characterized by cutaneous and mucosal fragility. Most of the 20 proteins affected have structural functions. Recently, a previously undescribed type of EB simplex (EBS), caused by gain-of-function mutations in KLHL24, encoding KLHL24 has been identified (He et al., 2016, Lin et al., 2016). This protein seems to be involved in protein ubiquitination. Patients carrying monoallelic mutations in the translation initiation codon of KLHL24 have a characteristic clinical phenotype, showing skin defects and blistering at birth and unusual stellate scarring, skin fragility, and whorled or macular hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation in childhood (Figure 1a–e). Although skin fragility improves by adulthood, nail dystrophy, anetoderma, and hair loss may occur (Figure 1f–h).

Hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) is a high-risk condition among the wider spectrum of single-ventricle physiology lesions, and few survivors have reached adulthood.1 As HLHS is one of the most common diagnoses for children undergoing Fontan palliation,2 identification of risk factors for adverse outcomes in this emerging population is of importance. We report results from a multicenter observational study that characterizes adults with Fontan palliation for underlying HLHS at entry into adulthood and defines factors associated with adverse outcomes. Adults (≥18 years by July 2014) with HLHS were studied. The diagnosis of HLHS was restricted to patients with mitral stenosis or atresia, aortic stenosis or atresia, and a diminutive left ventricle. Excluded were patients with other forms of dominant right ventricular lesions with univentricular physiology managed with a Norwood procedure (ie, unbalanced atrioventricular septal defect or double-outlet right ventricle) or those with heart transplantation. Available pediatric and adult cardiovascular data were reviewed. The primary end point (Fontan-specific major adverse cardiovascular event) was defined as death, transplantation listing, hospitalization (>24 hours) for heart failure requiring intravenous diuretics, sustained ventricular …

BACKGROUND In adults with congenital heart disease (CHD) and atrial arrhythmias, recommendations for thromboprophylaxis are vague and evidence is lacking. We aimed to identify factors that influence decision-making in daily practice. METHODS From the Swiss Adult Congenital HEart disease Registry (SACHER) we identified 241 patients with either atrial fibrillation (Afib) or atrial flutter/intraatrial reentrant tachycardia (Aflut/IART). The mode of anticoagulation was reviewed. Logistic regression models were used to assess factors that were associated with oral anticoagulation therapy. RESULTS Compared with patients with Aflut/IART, patients with Afib were older (51 ± 16.1 vs 37 ± 16 years, P < .001) and had a higher CHA DS -VASc (P < .001) and HAS-BLED scores (P = .005). Patients with Afib were more likely on oral anticoagulation than patients with Aflut/IART (67% vs 43%, P < .001). In a multivariate logistic regression model, age [odds ratio (OR) 1.03 per year, 95%CI (1.01-1.05), P = .019], atrial fibrillation [OR 2.75, 95%CI (1.30-5.08), P = .007], non-paroxysmal atrial arrhythmias [OR 5.33, 95%CI (2.21-12.85)], CHA DS -VASc-Score >1 [OR 2.93, 95%CI (1.87-4.61), P < .001], and Fontan palliation [OR 17.5, 95%CI (5.57-54.97), P < .001] were independently associated with oral anticoagulation treatment, whereas a HAS-BLED score >1 was associated with absence of thromboprophylaxis [OR 0.32, 95%CI (0.17-0.60), P < .001]. CONCLUSIONS In this multicenter study, age, type, and duration of atrial arrhythmias, CHA DS -VASc and HAS-BLED scores as well as a Fontan palliation had an impact on the use of thromboprophylaxis in adult CHD patients with atrial arrhythmias. In daily practice, anticoagulation strategies differ between patients with Afib and those with Aflut/IART. Prospective observational studies are necessary to clarify whether this attitude is justified.

Dank enormer Fortschritte in der Kardiochirurgie erreichen heute die meisten Patienten mit angeborenen Herzfehlern das Erwachsenenalter. Junge Frauen wollen und konnen dann schwanger werden. Jedoch kann das Risiko fur kardiovaskulare Komplikationen wahrend der Schwangerschaft, der Geburt und postpartal erheblich erhoht sein. Die rasch wachsende Zahl von Risikoschwangerschaften bei Frauen mit reparierten angeborenen Herzfehlern ist daher eine grose Herausforderung fur alle Beteiligten. Im folgenden Artikel werden die wichtigsten Schritte einer individualisierten Risikobeurteilung und Beratung sowie die grundlegenden Voraussetzungen fur eine optimale interdisziplinare Betreuung aufgezeigt.

BACKGROUND Population based studies show a steady increase in adult patients with congenital heart defects. The aim of this study was to assess the evolution of such a patient cohort and its burden on clinical care at a dedicated tertiary care centre. METHODS All patients with congenital heart disease followed up by a dedicated multidisciplinary team at our institution were identified (n = 1725). Disease characteristics, the increase in patient numbers and interventions and the increase in selected complications were analysed and compared between the first (1996-2005) and second (2006-2015) decades of the study period. RESULTS Between the two decades of the study period, the number of patients in follow-up increased by 109%, the number of patients who died or underwent transplantation more than doubled and the number of outpatient visits increased by 195%. One fourth of all patients underwent at least one surgical procedure and 14% had at least one percutaneous intervention. The increase in surgical procedures between the two decades was 27% and the increase in percutaneous interventions 159%. Between the two decades the number of patients requiring direct current cardioversion increased from 32 to 95 (+197%), the number of patients requiring admission for infective endocarditis increased from 7 to 29 (+314%) and the number of women followed up during pregnancy increased from 18 to 115 (+539%). CONCLUSION As a result of the increasing number and complexity of adult survivors with congenital heart disease more resources will be needed to cope with the demands of this novel cohort of complex patients in adult cardiology.

BACKGROUND In biventricular hearts the filling and contractility of one ventricle affects the performance of the other. In this study, we compared right ventricular systolic function and exercise capacity in patients with a subaortic right ventricle (RV) in relation to the presence of a left ventricular outflow tract obstruction (LVOTO). METHODS Retrospective chart review of adults with congenitally corrected transposition of the great arteries (ccTGA) or with a previous atrial switch procedure for complete TGA (D-TGA). A LVOTO was defined by a peak instantaneous systolic gradient>20mmHg. Right and left ventricular ejection fraction (EF) were measured by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and exercise capacity as the predicted peak oxygen consumption (peak VO2) on a cycle ergometer. RESULTS We identified 79 clinically stable adults (age 33±10years, 70% male). Nine patients (11%) had cc-TGA and 70 patients had (89%) D-TGA. Thirteen patients (16%) had a LVOTO with a mean peak instantaneous systolic gradient of 43±22mmHg. Patients with a LVOTO had higher left (68±7% vs. 60±9%, p=0.01) and right ventricular EF (52±8 vs. 46±9%, p=0.05) by CMR compared to patients without LVOTO. In a multivariate regression analysis with left ventricular EF and LVOTO as predictors, only left ventricular EF was independently associated with right ventricular EF (correlation coefficient 0.41, p