Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Lifelong, comprehensive care for adults with congenital heart disease
Specialized ACHD Care
Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) represents one of the fastest-growing populations in cardiology. As surgical and medical advances have improved survival rates for children born with congenital heart defects, more patients are now living well into adulthood. However, these patients require specialized, lifelong care from physicians with expertise in both congenital heart disease and adult cardiovascular medicine.
Dr. Charla brings dual training in pediatric and adult congenital cardiology, combined with extensive experience in establishing and directing comprehensive ACHD programs. His approach integrates early detection, advanced imaging, risk stratification, and multidisciplinary care coordination to optimize outcomes and quality of life for ACHD patients.
Comprehensive ACHD Services
Lifelong Surveillance
Regular monitoring and timely intervention to detect and address complications before they become severe
Risk Stratification
Evidence-based risk assessment to personalize care plans and optimize long-term outcomes
Multidisciplinary Care
Coordinated team approach involving cardiology, cardiac surgery, electrophysiology, and other specialists
Early Detection
Advanced diagnostic techniques to identify complications early and implement tailored therapies
Heart Failure Management
Specialized management of heart failure in CHD, including novel therapies and optimization strategies
Advanced Planning
Strategic planning for mechanical circulatory support (MCS) and heart transplantation when needed
ACHD Training & Leadership
Fellowship Training
Toronto General Hospital / University of Toronto (2016-2018)
Completed comprehensive fellowship in Adult Congenital Heart Disease at one of the world's premier ACHD centers, gaining expertise in complex congenital heart disease management, advanced imaging, and interventional procedures.
Leadership Experience
Regional Director, ACHD Alliance - Upstate & Western NY (2022-2025)
Led regional ACHD care coordination and program development across multiple institutions
Medical Director (ACHD), University of Rochester (2022-2025)
Established and directed accredited ACHD program focused on innovation and quality care
Medical Director (ACHD), University Hospitals Cleveland (2018-2020)
Built comprehensive ACHD program with multidisciplinary team approach
Board Certification
American Board of Internal Medicine - Adult Congenital Heart Disease (2019)
Board-certified in the subspecialty of Adult Congenital Heart Disease, demonstrating mastery of complex congenital heart disease care in adults
ACHD Research & Innovation
Dr. Charla's research focuses on improving outcomes and quality of life for ACHD patients through:
- Fontan Physiology: Novel interventions to optimize cardiac output and exercise tolerance in Fontan circulation
- Heart Failure Management: Advanced therapies and risk stratification for heart failure in CHD
- Outcomes Research: Long-term outcomes, quality of life, and surgical approaches in complex CHD
- Program Development: System-level strategies to improve access and equity in ACHD care
Expert ACHD Care
If you're an adult with congenital heart disease or a healthcare provider seeking consultation, Dr. Charla offers comprehensive, evidence-based care