Improving Standards in Congenital Heart Surgery Using Outcomes Data and Risk Stratification

Abstract

The complex heterogeneity inherent to reparative procedures for congenital heart defects and their relatively small volumes makes comprehensive analyses of outcomes particularly challenging. That said, an incisive understanding of the impact of patient- and disease-specific factors is crucial to improving overall outcomes. Datasets that reflect ‘real world’ contemporary practice of congenital cardiac care and provide collective outcomes data across age groups and institutions in various parts of the world play a vital role in filling this gap. Risk-adjusted benchmark outcomes data offer opportunities to improve the quality and value of care provided at the level of an individual patient, an institution or program, and the overall specialty. On-going enhancements to data collected and their analyses will ensure that the care we provide continues to evolve. Future efforts should be aimed at integrating multiple datasets to ensure access to longitudinal follow-up and effective analysis of long-term outcomes.