Classification of Congenital Heart Disease from the Perspective of Cardiac Rehabilitation and the Importance of Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs

Advancements in prenatal diagnostics and surgical techniques have significantly improved the management and survival outcomes of congenital heart disease (CHD) patients. Early detection, often during the fetal stage, enables timely intervention and preparation for neonatal care, improving survival rates and reducing complications. However, the growing number of adult CHD survivors underscores the need for comprehensive long-term care strategies, including cardiac rehabilitation programs. From the perspective of cardiac rehabilitation, CHD can be classified by its impact on cardiovascular function and the need for therapeutic interventions after primary repair. Bi-ventricular circulation cases often, not all, achieve near-normal function post-surgery, requiring periodic monitoring and exercise-based rehabilitation. Single-ventricle palliation involves greater hemodynamic burdens, necessitating intensive rehabilitation tailored to systemic demands. Structural issues, such as valve dysfunction or vascular stenosis, further influence rehabilitation design and patient outcomes, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches with individual risk stratification. Cardiac rehabilitation, including structured exercise regimens, enhances physical function, quality of life, and social integration. Psychological support is also critical, as CHD patients face high rates of anxiety and depression. Multidisciplinary collaboration among cardiologists, surgeons, and mental health specialists is essential for holistic care. Risk stratification and culturally adapted protocols further optimize rehabilitation outcomes, empowering patients to achieve improved physical and psychosocial health. Future efforts should focus on evidence-based rehabilitation strategies that address both medical and social challenges, ensuring better long-term outcomes for CHD patients.