A Comprehensive Insight into Adult Congenital Heart Disease: A Battle of Survival into Adulthood

Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) is an anatomical anomaly of the heart or the great vessels. Today, ACHD, according to the 2018 AHA guidelines and 2020 ESC guidelines, corresponds to its anatomical and physiological flaws. Along with these congenital lesions, ACHD can further be combined with Eisenmenger syndrome, backed up by Pulmonary Hypertension. Apart from these, existing comorbidities like Heart Failure or structural valvular issues in ACHD patients add to the numerous challenges faced to survive into adulthood. Aiding clinicians in diagnosing ACHD is Echocardiography, Heart CT angiography and Heart MRI. Usually, other differential diagnoses must be eliminated to establish a confirmed diagnosis of ACHD, following a detailed patient and family history, backed up by genetic testing. Based on each patient's unique anatomy, clinical condition, and long-term health objectives, the care of ACHD is a multifaceted and protracted procedure that includes preventive, surgical and interventional techniques, rhythm management, and psychosocial support. Gradually changing its emphasis from primary surgery to the careful management of acquired comorbidities, late complications, and residual abnormalities. Limited anatomical defect care is giving way to an era of advancements marked by proactive and individualised strategies. Ongoing research is enabling innovations that integrate regenerative medicine, artificial intelligence, imaging, and new and improved devices. This paper reviews the essential details of ACHD and stresses the importance of advanced diagnostic modalities and associated therapy for better care and survival of patients with ACHD.