A world of difference.
Before arriving in Rochester, MN, to join the Adult Congenital Heart Disease team at Mayo Clinic, Dr. Burchill’s research helped shape clinical care guidelines for ACHD patients in the U.S. and around the world. Now he’s leading development of the Mayo Clinic’s Adult Congenital Heart Failure Care Clinic. Working alongside other specialists who are equally passionate about advancing heart care for people with ACHD is where Dr. Burchill feels most at home.
ACHD and heart failure intersect.
According to the CDC, there are over one million people living with ACHD in the U.S., all of whom are at greater risk of heart failure. Heart failure is the inability of the heart muscle to pump blood at normal capacity. The condition causes a range of symptoms, including abdominal swelling, changes in heart rhythm, fluttering or pounding of the heart, and unexplained breathlessness. Although a serious condition, heart failure does not guarantee that a person’s heart will fail and is not a terminal diagnosis for most. However, finding the right specialist early is important, especially for those with ACHD.
In the presence of ACHD, heart failure also requires a different approach and understanding of the patient altogether. The care needed for a 30-year-old with ACHD is different from care needed for a 75-year-old with no history of heart disease. Studies show that about one in every three people living with ACHD will develop heart failure, and people with ACHD require ongoing care.
Specialized care for a special heart.
People with ACHD may have different heart structure and function that require individualized treatment for heart failure. When doctors identify heart failure early, treatments can help the heart regain strength and minimize heart failure symptoms. The key is being in the care of a specialized cardiologist—one who understands ACHD and can support heart health for the way you choose to live. The adult congenital heart team at Mayo Clinic excels in recognizing and responding to the unique needs of their ACHD patients.
The foundation of personalized care.
Speaking to Dr. Burchill about his ACHD research, you quickly pick up his focus on providing access to evidence-based care that meets the individual needs of ACHD patients. “My work is heavily influenced by my life and heritage,” said Dr. Burchill. “I use an approach that I call deep listening—listening to the heart as a cardiologist, listening from the heart, and listening for the heart in others. I believe there are two experts at the table—me in congenital heart disease, and the patient in their own life and personal goals.”
The needs of each patient must be understood to ensure their complex medical needs are met. By collaborating with the individuals seeking help with their ACHD, Dr. Burchill and the team of specialists at Mayo Clinic Department of Cardiovascular Medicine are creating a new roadmap for care.
Unparalleled expertise.
As a growing population of people with ACHD are defying the odds, the ACHD team at Mayo Clinic is making world-class specialty heart care accessible to more. If you or an adult you know is living with congenital heart disease or experiencing symptoms of heart failure, listen to your own heart and reach out to the experts.
To learn more about Dr. Burchill and the innovative care at Mayo Clinic, visit: mayoclinic.org/innovation | 507-284-3328
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