Presented by Adam Powell, MD, MS; Alan Wang, MD

Disclosures: None

1.00 AACVPR CEUs, 1.00 ANCC CEUs

Description: Cardiac rehabilitation is a cornerstone of recovery in adult cardiovascular disease, yet its role in children and in patients with congenital heart disease is only beginning to be defined. This introductory session, recorded in July 2026, makes the case for pediatric cardiac rehabilitation, addressing long-standing misconceptions about exercise restriction and reviewing the physiologic and psychosocial benefits of physical activity across the spectrum of congenital heart disease. This session will compare the structure, staffing, and programming of pediatric and adult cardiac rehabilitation, highlighting where established adult models translate directly and where they must be adapted for younger patients and their families. The session closes with the current evidence base, active research questions, and future directions for the field. Attendees will leave with a practical framework and concrete first steps for incorporating pediatric and congenital heart disease patients into new or existing cardiac rehabilitation programs

Learning Objectives: 

1. Describe common misconceptions about exercise in congenital heart disease and explain the physiologic and psychosocial rationale for physical activity in pediatric patients. 

2. Differentiate the key structural and programmatic elements of pediatric cardiac rehabilitation from those of established adult programs. 

3. Evaluate the current evidence base for pediatric cardiac rehabilitation and identify key research gaps and future directions for the field.

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