Aortic dilatation and aortopathies in congenital heart disease

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The objective of this review is to summarize the recent data pertaining to aortic dilatation in congenital heart disease (CHD) and to discuss the current understanding of the pathophysiology and management of this disease. RECENT FINDINGS: Aortic dilatation is a common finding in CHD. However, acute aortic complications appear to be relatively rare. Multiple factors predispose this population to aortic dilatation, including underlying genetics, cellular-based mechanisms, and abnormalities in aortic mechanics and valve morphology. SUMMARY: Although aortic dilatation is common in CHD, data about adverse long-term outcomes are limited. Optimal disease-specific management strategies have yet to be developed, and further research is needed to guide care in this population.