What is an adult congenital heart assessment? A Consultant Cardiologist's guide
An adult congenital heart assessment is a specialist review for people born with a heart condition, whether it was corrected in childhood or has only recently come to light. Many people with congenital heart conditions live full and active lives, but their hearts still need periodic expert review to check that valves, chambers and any previous repairs are working well.
The assessment also guides important decisions, such as those around exercise, pregnancy and long-term health, which often depend on how the heart is functioning now rather than on the original diagnosis alone. Because congenital anatomy can be complex, detailed cardiac imaging is central to the review. At the Devonshire Street clinic in London, these assessments are carried out by Professor Michael Henein, a Professor of Cardiology with internationally recognised cardiac imaging expertise and extensive international academic collaborations. Accurate imaging by an experienced consultant is essential to interpret congenital heart anatomy correctly. Because every congenital heart is different, the assessment is tailored to your particular anatomy and history rather than following a standard template.
Who needs an adult congenital heart assessment in London?
An assessment is appropriate for adults with a known congenital heart condition who need ongoing review, for those whose childhood condition has not been followed up for some time, and for anyone in whom a congenital abnormality is newly suspected. It is also valuable when planning pregnancy or significant physical activity. Patients attend from across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and Central London.
What to expect on the day
1
A detailed review of your history, including any childhood diagnosis, surgery or previous investigations.
2
An examination and cardiac imaging, usually an echocardiogram, to assess the current structure and function of the heart.
3
Professor Henein explains the findings and how your condition is best monitored or managed.
4
You leave with a clear plan for follow-up and any further tests, shared with your GP where you wish.
What is included
Assessment establishes how well the heart and any previous repair are functioning and sets out a plan for ongoing review. Where more detail is needed, a transoesophageal echocardiogram or other imaging can be arranged and interpreted by the same consultant, so that the picture is as complete as possible.
Why choose Professor Henein for an adult congenital heart assessment in London
Congenital heart conditions require a cardiologist with genuine imaging expertise and broad experience. Professor Henein is a Consultant Cardiologist and Professor of Cardiology whose imaging expertise is recognised internationally, with fifteen years at Royal Brompton Hospital, and close collaboration with other subspecialities in congenital heart disease as well as many scientific publications in the same field
Because he manages the complete patient journey from diagnosis through ongoing care, your condition is followed by one expert who understands its history.
Common questions about an adult congenital heart assessment in London
Why do adults with congenital heart conditions need review?
Even when a condition was corrected in childhood, the heart needs periodic expert review to check that valves, chambers and any repairs are working well.
Which tests are involved?
Assessment usually includes an examination and cardiac imaging, most often an echocardiogram, with more detailed imaging where needed.
Is this relevant when planning a pregnancy?
Yes. An assessment is valuable when planning pregnancy or significant physical activity, as advice depends on current heart function.
What should I bring?
Bring previous records, scans and any surgical details so your history can be fully considered.
How often should I be reviewed?
This depends on your specific condition. Professor Henein sets out a clear follow-up plan at your appointment, so that your heart is reviewed at appropriate intervals over time.
Book an adult congenital heart assessment in London
To arrange a adult congenital heart assessment with Professor Michael Henein, contact the clinic at 16 Devonshire Street, London W1G 7AF, in the heart of the Marylebone medical district. Appointments are available to patients across London, Marylebone, Harley Street and the surrounding areas.
To book, call +44 20 7228 8546 or email hayley.gibbs@hcaconsultant.co.uk, or use the booking button on this page to request an appointment. Professor Henein oversees each stage of your care, from your first appointment through any imaging, diagnosis and treatment, so your heart is looked after by one experienced consultant throughout.