Congenital Heart Disease: A Lifelong Chronic Condition

Patients with congenital heart disease (CHD) are a relatively young but fast-growing patient population, who benefit from appropriate expertise and life-long follow-up. They represent a very heterogenous patient group. CHD is the most common malformation at birth and a major contributor to infant mortality. Most patients remain chronically ill both, physically and mentally and in need of life-long follow-up. Multicentre data collection and research are essential to this heterogeneous patient group. Given the advent of new big data analysis, genetic research and artificial intelligence new opportunities for research have emerged in this vulnerable population.

This Research Topic aims to provide a forum for contemporary research in CHD, focusing on high quality papers directly linked to life-long care of CHD patients and to clinically relevant treatment options.

We welcome research focusing on all aspects of congenital heart diseases (CHD) from birth to old age, particularly relevant to CHD care. We encourage authors to submit data based on innovative research concepts, including machine learning, genetic studies and interventional therapy that will have a direct impact on understanding of the pathophysiology or provision of care for patients with CHD. It is hoped that the research published in this series will contribute to improve the fate of people born with congenital heart disease worldwide by addressing clinical management, prognostication, and disease modification.