Welcome to the Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) page. Mayo Clinic has cared for child and adult patients living with CHD for more than 60 years. With extensive expertise in treating people with rare and common congenital heart defects, our medical specialists provide exactly the care you need. Follow the CHD page and stay up-to-date as we post stories, clinical trials, resources and other useful information to help you and your loved ones along the CHD journey. Post a comment and share your thoughts.

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Anomalous Coronary Artery: Risk Stratification

Mayo Clinic Adult Congenital Heart Disease expert Naser Ammash, M.D., discusses risk stratification for coronary artery anomalies.

Coronary artery anomalies are common and can be seen on CT scan or coronary angiography. Coronary artery anomalies consist of ectopic coronary artery origin, coronary artery aneurysm, coronary artery fistulae and coronary artery bridge. Although most of these anomalies are benign, ectopic coronary artery origin can be life-threatening. Treatment options vary based on age and type of coronary anomaly, but surgical repair is available in some populations.

Arrhythmia Management in Ebstein Anomaly

Mayo Clinic electrophysiologist Christopher McLeod, M.B., Ch.B., Ph.D., discusses arrhythmia management in Ebstein’s anomaly.

Treatment of atrial arrhythmias can be difficult in patients with Ebstein’s anomaly. However, as cardiac ablation technology and techniques improve, results are improving as well. It is important to note that arrhythmia treatment can also occur during cardiac surgery, so it is important to look for arrhythmias prior to treatment for Ebstein’s anomaly.

Fontan Associated Liver Disease

Mayo Clinic hepatologist Doug Simonetto, M.D., discusses Fontan-associated liver disease.

Liver disease is one of the long-term complications of the Fontan operation, including passive congestion, cirrhosis and liver cancer. Symptoms of liver disease can include volume overload, fluid retention, hepatic encephalopathy and gastrointestinal bleeding. It is important to have regular follow-up with your physician following a Fontan operation, to ensure these complications are caught early.

Complex Congenital Heart surgery: Unanticipated Consequences

Mayo Clinic congenital cardiologist Alexander Egbe, M.B.B.S., discusses the Mayo Clinic Fontan Program.

The Fontan operation is a complex open-heart surgery. At Mayo Clinic, more than 1,100 Fontan operations have been performed. The Mayo Clinic Fontan Program offers comprehensive care from a multidisciplinary team with more than 40 years of experience. Patients are offered ongoing support from providers, social media support, as well as educational classes. The goal of the Mayo Clinic Fontan Program is to provide a comprehensive approach to a complex problem.

Eisenmenger Syndrome

Mayo Clinic congenital heart disease expert Naser Ammash, M.D., discusses Eisenmenger Syndrome.

Eisenmenger syndrome is a complex, multisystem congenital heart disease typically found in adults. Ventricular septal defect is the most common cause of Eisenmenger syndrome; however, atrial septal defect, atrioventricular canal defect or patent ductus arteriosus can also be the source.

Patients with Eisenmenger syndrome should avoid salt, smoking, high altitude, strenuous exercise, competitive sports and pregnancy. Follow-up testing is important to ensure a proper course of treatment and management.