Publication
Title
Advanced care planning in adult congenital heart disease : transitioning from repair to palliation and end-of-life care
Author
Abstract
As a result of advances in pediatric care, the majority of patients born with congenital heart disease (CHD) survive into adulthood [1]. Effective transfer and transition programs assure that patients with CHD remain in follow-up and receive continuous holistic care. Unfortunately, adult patients with CHD carry residual lesions and sequelae putting them at risk for premature death related to re-interventions or complications; most commonly heart failure and arrhythmia [2]. The scientific adult CHD (ACHD) community has been working hard to identify variables related to worse outcomes, modifying those where possible in order to improve survival. Indeed, survival in adults with CHD has increased, but consequently, on top of CHD-related complications, patients are increasingly exposed to the standard cardiovascular risk factors. Therefore, a program for lifelong coaching on health behavior and life style management becomes indispensable. More emerging is that a substantial number of patients, in particular those with complex heart defects, will eventually end up in a stage with hardly any medical or interventional options left. Our healthcare provision has to be prepared to organize care for this specific group of patients who will die prematurely and require the timely development and establishment of advanced are planning. Advanced care planning should preferentially be set-up in expert CHD centers. The long-lasting relationship in ACHD care with healthcare providers offers an excellent basis with regards to prognosis, advanced care planning and end-of-life issues. (C) 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Language
English
Source (journal)
International journal of cardiology. - Amsterdam, 1981, currens
Publication
Amsterdam : 2019
ISSN
0167-5273
DOI
10.1016/J.IJCARD.2018.10.078
Volume/pages
279 (2019) , p. 57-61
ISI
000457124200016
Pubmed ID
30413300
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
UAntwerpen
Publication type
Subject
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 26.03.2020
Last edited 23.08.2024
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