INTRODUCTION
Dear Colleagues and Friends,
It is with great enthusiasm that we announce the third edition of the ACHD Academy Update, International Congress on Adult Congenital Heart Disease, which will be held in Bucharest, Romania, on the 3rd—4th October 2025.
This year, our focus is on equipping cardiologists—regardless of subspecialty—with the critical knowledge required for the care and management of patients with congenital heart disease. We begin from the transition of care from pediatric to adult congenital heart disease, and dive into inclusive life-long care of specific most prevalent congenital heart defects. We aim, in the two comprehensive days, to provide foundational ACHD insights with the latest, state-of-the-art updates on treatment options.
Our goal is to offer unique learning ACHD experience and the most recent advancements in clinical practice, all presented by renowned experts in the field.
Finally, we look forward to providing you with the opportunities for social interaction and professional networking in Bucharest, often referred to as the “Paris of the East“—the vibrant capital of Romania.
Join us in Bucharest.
Looking forward to SEEING YOU ALL in Bucharest in October 2025.
CONGRESS INFO
Recommended accommodation:
Crowne Plaza Bucharest
Poligrafiei 1, Bucharest
Romania
Under the patronage of:
Ministry of Health, Republic of Romania
Romanian Society of Cardiology
PROGRAMME
Friday, October 3rd 2025
8.45-9.15 Welcome Greeting
Margarita Brida (Croatia/UK), Massimo Chessa (Italy), Tammam Youssef (Romania)
________________________________
9.15- 10.00 Session 1
The Extended Journey from Fetus to Adulthood
Chairs: Egorova Anastasia (The Netherlands), Michael Gatzoulis (UK), Catalin Cirstoveanu (Romania)
________________________________
9.15-9.30
Adult congenital heart disease throughout the years: Past, present, future
Margarita Brida (Croatia)
9.30-9.45
Transition of care from paediatric to adult congenital heart disease
Ioan Mircea Coman (Romania)
9.45-10.00
Importance of life-long ACHD care: Prognosis, timely (re)interventions, lifestyle
Giulia Guglielmi (Italy)
________________________________
10.00-11.00 Session 2
In the spotlight: Diagnostic imaging in ACHD
Chairs: Claudia Montanaro (Italy), Margarita Brida (Croatia), Rana Youssef (Syria)
________________________________
10.00-10.20
Echo in atrial septal defects (ASD): How to diagnose different ASDs, added value of 3DE
Hani M. Mahmoud-Elsayed (Egypt)
10.20-10.40
CMR essentials in ACHD
Alessandra Frigiola (UK)
10.40-11.00
CT and PET-CT essentials in ACHD
Sarah Moharem-Elgamal (UK)
________________________________
11.00-11.30 Coffee Break
________________________________
11.30-13.00 Session 3
What I need to know about specific disease – From diagnosis to treatment
Chairs: Werner Budts (Belgium), Alessandro Frigiola (Italy), Adrian Molnar (Romania)
The Speaker will present the key points of each defect: the most common issues, the best imaging technique, and treatment options
________________________________
11.30-11.50
Atrial septal defect: The most common congenital heart disease diagnosed in adulthood
Blanche Cupido (South Africa)
11.50-12.10
Ventricular septal defect: To close or not to close?
Giancarlo Scognamiglio (Italy)
12.10-12.30
Atrioventricular septal defect
Irina Margarint (Romania)
12.30-12.50
Aortic coarctation and/or re-coarctation
Katja Prokselj (Slovenia)
________________________________
13.00-14.00 Lunch break
________________________________
14.00-15.15 Session 4
What I need to know about specific disease – from diagnosis to treatment
Chairs: Julie De Backer (Belgium), Tammam Youssef (Romania), Hani M. Mahmoud-Elsayed (Egypt)
The Speaker will present the key points of each defect: the most common issues, the best imaging technique, and treatment options
________________________________
14.00-14.25
Tetralogy of Fallot
Werner Budts (Belgium)
14.25-14.45
Ebstein Anomaly
Gabriele Egidy Assenza (Italy)
14.45-15.10
Eisenmenger Syndrome: Pulmonary hypertension therapy
George Giannakoulas (Greece)
________________________________
15.10-15.30 Coffee Break
________________________________
15.30-17.00 Session 5
Focus on interventions in ACHD
Chairs: Massimo Chessa (Italy), Aleksandar Kempny (UK), Vlad Iliescu (Romania)
The Speaker will present the key points for appropriate patient selection and tips and tricks regarding the procedure safety and efficacy
________________________________
15.30-15.50
Interventions for atrial and ventricular septal defect closure
Michael Rahbek Schmidt (Denmark)
15.50-16.05
Interventions for coarctation of the aorta
Massimo Chessa (Italy)
16.05-16.45
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Introduction and the balloon expandable valves (15′)
Aleksandar Kempny (UK) -
Interventions on the pulmonary valve: the Self expandable valves (15′)
Fabio D’Aiello (Italy) -
Discussion (10′)
16.45-17.05
Bicuspid aortic valve addressed with TAVI – Pros and Cons
Stefan James (Sweden)
17.05-17.15
Discussion
________________________________
17.15-18.00 Session 6
ACHD patient in the Emergency: What to do and what not to do
Chairs: Michael A Gatzoulis (UK), Dan Deleanu (Romania), George Giannakoulas (Greece)
________________________________
17.15-17.30
Chest pain: Clinical Case discussion
Lucian Predescu (Romania)
17.30-17.45
Arrhythmias: Clinical Case discussion
Radu Vatasescu (Romania)
17.45-18.00
Fever: Clinical Case discussion
Roxana Enache (Romania)
________________________________
18.00-18.30 Signature Lecture: The Long Journey of the Surgeons
Chair: Massimo Chessa (Italy)
Presenter: Alessandro Giamberti (Italy)
________________________________
18.30 Wrap-up Day 1
________________________________
19.30 Get-together Dinner (optional)
Saturday, October 4th 2025
8.30-9.50 Session 7
Focus on specific ACHD issues
Chairs: Michael A Gatzoulis (UK), Cecilia Linde (Sweden), Filippo Crea (Italy)
________________________________
8.30-8.50
Infective endocarditis in ACHD
Emil Fosbol (Denmark), Task force member of 2023 ESC endocarditis guidelines
8.50-9.20 Keynote Lecture:
Novel 2025 ESC Guidelines for the management of cardiovascular disease and pregnancy
Julie De Backer (Belgium), Task Force Chair of the 2025 ESC pregnancy guidelines
9.20-9.50
Heart Failure in ACHD management
Thomas Lüscher (Switzerland/UK), President of the ESC
________________________________
9.50-10.40 Session 8
Round table discussion call for action: How to support in-hospital ACHD organization in the region and to develop the discipline academically?
Chairs:
– Filippo Crea (Italy) Editor in Chief of the European Heart Journal
– Cecilia Linde (Sweden), President elect of the ESC
Panelists:
– Margarita Brida (Croatia)
– Thomas Lüscher (Switzerland/UK), President of the ESC
– Ovidiu Chioncel (Romania), President of the Romanian Society of Cardiology
– Viorel Ginga (Romania) President of Carol Davila University Bucharest
– Marius Eugen Ciurea (Romania), Dean of the Crajova University
– Vlad Iliescu (Romania) (Lead of Cardiology and Cardiovascular surgery Department) University -Bucharest.
________________________________
10.40-11.00 Coffee Break
________________________________
11.00-12.00 Session 9 – Learn from experts
What every cardiologist needs to know about Transposition of Great Arteries (TGA)
Chairs: Katja Prokšelj (Slovenia), Alessandro Giamberti (Italy), Horatiu Moldovan (Romania)
________________________________
11.00-11.20
TGA atrial switch
Egorova Anastasia (The Netherlands)
11.20-11.40
TGA arterial switch
Horatiu Suciu (Romania)
11.40-12.00
Congenitally Corrected TGA
Cristina Filip (Romania)
________________________________
12.00-12.40 Session 10 – Learn from the experts
Fontan circulation explained: From anatomy to pathophysiology and treatment options
Chairs: Sarah Moharem-Elgamal (UK), Giulia Guglielmi (Italy), Mircea Ioan Coman (Romania)
________________________________
12.00-12.20
Surgical approach
Grigore Tinica (Romania)
12.20-12.40
Fontan pathophysiology: The main problems and the right treatment – What to do and what not to do
Claudia Montanaro (Italy)
________________________________
12.40-13.00 Lights and Shadows of the Artificial Intelligence
Roberto Ferrari (Italy)
________________________________
13.00-13.30 The Best 5 abstract presentation & awards
Chairs: Margarita Brida (Croatia), Youssef Tammam (Romania), Anda Ungureanu (Romania)
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13.30 Meeting Closure
Registration is opened.
| Category | Early fee (until 15th July 2025) | Late fee (from 16th July 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fee (LIVE) | 400 € | 500 € |
| Student / Trainee / Nurse (LIVE) * | 300 € | 400 € |
| Standard fee (VIRTUAL) | 100 € | 200 € |
| Student / Trainee / Nurse (VIRTUAL) * | 70 € | 140 € |
| Get-together Dinner (3rd October 2025, 1930h) | 80 € | 80 € |
The registration fees include:
- Standard / Student / Trainee / Nurse (LIVE)
- Full access to the 2-day ACHD Academy Update 2025 LIVE Meeting
- Full access to recorded ACHD Academy Update 2025 sessions
- Standard / Student / Trainee / Nurse (Virtual)
- Full access to the 2-day ACHD Academy Update 2025 Virtual Meeting via the online platform
- Full access to recorded ACHD Academy Update 2025 sessions
Cancellation terms and conditions:
Any cancellation or alteration of your registration must be notified in writing to the Organizing Committee by email info@achdacademy.com and will be subject to the following conditions:
- 30% of cancellation fees until the early fee deadline (1st July 2025)
- 100% cancellation fees from the early fee deadline to the event (from 2nd July 2025 to 2nd October 2025)
- 100% refund will apply to all participants if the congress is canceled by Organizing Committee
Please note that any refund will be processed after Congress.
Registration conditions:
ACHD Academy Update 2025 is only accessible to healthcare professionals, associated press, and other stakeholders in the science, management, and prevention of cardiovascular disease. By registering, you accept that non-healthcare professionals, including children, will not be able to access the meeting. By registering, you also fully accept all registration conditions as further detailed.
*Applies to students, trainees and nurses: proof of status will be required (student ID, letter from University, etc)
Data Privacy Statement:
The information collected during registration is subject to the data processing to process your purchase and manage the congress and related social event as well as ensure you get an invoice, congress badge, invitation letter, CME points, and certificate of attendance. Without this information, we will be unable to properly process your registration. Filida – Putnička Agencija d.o.o. is the data controller. The information collected during this registration process is necessary to provide you with an optimal user experience and networking opportunities during ACHD Academy Update 2025. During ACHD Academy Update 2025 your online activity will be tracked and collected by the Filida – Putnička Agencija d.o.o. This will be used for reporting and statistical purposes; to assist in enhancing your experience; to inform you about congress activities in a coherent and adequate manner and provide you with personalized suggestions and recommendations of pertinent content for you to visit. The recipients of the data are Filida – Putnička Agencija d.o.o. (the meeting organizer and secretariat). The data collected will be kept for a maximum of five years after your last transaction or activity with us. Additionally, please be aware that your profile information and details will be shared with the sponsor of the Industry you choose to interact with (via banner, session and/or webpage, booth, sponsors interactions, and meetings) as part of the ACHD Academy Update 2025. The following personal data can be retrieved by the corresponding exhibitor or industry: first name(s), last name(s), country, email, and profile information. In accordance with chapter three of the European Regulation 2016/679 with regards to data protection, you have the right to request from the Filida – Putnička Agencija d.o.o., access to and rectification or erasure of your personal data or restriction of processing concerning your data or to object to the processing as well as the right to data portability. To make such a request, please contact info@achdacademy.com (be aware that proof of identity will be requested during the process via a secure web link).
ABSTRACT SUBMISSION
Abstract submission is closed.
Abstract submission is now closed. If you wish to resubmit or have any questions, please send an email to achd@filidatravel.hr.
Having your abstract submitted gives you the chance to increase your visibility and interact with your peers and experts.
1st prize wins free registration to the next Euro-ACHD 2026 Congress
2nd prize wins free registration to the 15th Advanced Symposium on ACHD, London, October 2026
3rd prize wins book Diagnosis and Management of Adult Congenital Heart Disease
Key dates
Abstracts submission open:
1st February 2025
Deadline for submission of abstracts:
15th June 2025
Notification of acceptance of abstracts:
1st July 2025
Presenting author registration and payment deadline:
15th August 2025
Uploading of posters (PDF):
15th September 2025
ACHD Academy Update congress:
3rd-4th October 2025
The abstract must follow the following structure:
Background
Material and methods
Results
Conclusions
Figures: send tables, pictures, and graphics by www.wetransfer.com or a similar service, and paste the link in provided field in the submission form. You can only enter one figure.
Evaluation and acceptance
The final selection will be made by the Scientific and Organising Committee, which will determine the format and schedule of the presentation for each abstract. No rescheduling or changes will be possible.
All abstract submitters will be notified by e-mail, around the 1st July 2025, about the outcome (accepted or not accepted) of the review and selection process. Please ensure that the email provided is accurate, as all correspondences will be sent via email. If the abstract is accepted, further instructions will be provided at the time of the results announcement.
Guidelines
Abstracts must be original and must not have been published or presented at any other meeting prior to the ACHD Academy Update 2025. Abstracts of unfinished researches will not be evaluated. Abstracts stating ‘data will be discussed in the presentation’ will not be accepted. Clinical case submissions are accepted. The abstract body must not include any indication of the personal details of authors. Avoid also reference to institutions, locations or funding sources.
Abstracts must be submitted using exclusively the on-line abstract submission form you will find in this website. Abstracts submitted by email or fax will not be accepted. Abstracts received after the deadline will not be considered. The presenting author is required to ensure that all co-authors are aware of the content of the abstract before submission.
The Presenting author must be the Contact author in the submission form and he/she must be listed first in the list of authors.
There is no limit to the number of abstracts an author/individual may submit, but the same research cannot be submitted twice, even with a different title. The Presenting author must register for the meeting before 1st August 2025 to ensure the abstract is included in the program and scheduled for presentation.
Accepted abstracts will be presented in Poster room ( PDF ) in the meeting venue and on the Poster Gallery in the virtual meeting platform. In addition, a selection of the best posters will be also presented orally. More information will be included in the Abstract acceptance letter.
Abstracts must not exceed 300 words and must be submitted in English. Please do not leave blank lines to separate paragraphs. Special characters and symbols are accepted in the abstract except in the title. We suggest to type the text in a Word processing programme in a common font, and copy-paste it into the corresponding field. Bold, italic and underlined texts are not accepted.
DIRECTORS
Margarita Brida
CROATIA
Massimo Chessa
ITALY
Tammam Youssef
ROMANIA
Michael A Gatzoulis
UNITED KINGDOM
FACULTY
International Scientific Commitee
Assenza Gabriele Egidy, Italy
Brida Margarita, Croatia/UK
Budts Werner, Belgium
Chessa Massimo, Italy
Crea Filippo, Italy
Cupido Blanche, South Africa
D’Aiello Fabio, Italy
De Backer Julie, Belgium
Egorova Anastasia, The Netherlands
Fosbol Emil, Denmark
Frigiola Alessandra, UK
Gatzoulis Michael A, UK
Giamberti Alessandro, Italy
Giannakoulas George, Greece
Guglielmi Giulia, Italy
James Stefan, Sweden
Kempny Aleksandar, UK
Linde Cecilia, Sweden
Lüscher Thomas, Switzerland/UK
Mahmoud-Elsayed Hani M., Egypt
Moharem-Elgamal Sarah, UK
Montanaro Claudia, Italy
Prokselj Katja, Slovenia
Schmidt Michael Rahbek, Denmark
Scognamiglio Giancarlo, Italy
Youssef Rana, Syria
Local Scientific Commitee
Cirstoveanu Catalin, Romania
Ciurea Marius Eugen, Romania
Coman Ioan Mircea, Romania
Deleanu Dan, Romania
Enache Roxana, Romania
Filip Cristina, Romania
Ginga Viorel, Romania
Iliescu Vlad, Romania
Margarint Irina, Romania
Moldovan Horatiu, Romania
Molnar Adrian, Romania
Predescu Lucian, Romania
Suciu Horatiu, Romania
Tinica Grigore, Romania
Ungureanu Anda, Romania
Vatasescu Radu, Romania
Youssef Tammam, Romania
Local Scientific Committee Coordinators
Chioncel Ovidiu, Romania
Frigiola Alessandro, Romania/Italy
SPONSORS
LOCATION
Bucharest: The Paris of the East
Nestled at the crossroads of Eastern Europe, Bucharest beckons travelers with a fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Known as the “Little Paris” of the East, this Romanian capital is a city where history whispers through its streets and innovation hums in its bustling avenues.
Start your journey in the heart of the city at Piața Unirii, where fountains dance and the city’s pulse can be felt in every corner. From here, stroll towards the awe-inspiring Palace of the Parliament, a colossal architectural wonder and the heaviest building in the world. With its imposing presence, it tells tales of Romania’s turbulent past under Communist rule and the ambition of Nicolae Ceaușescu.
A short walk away lies the Old Town (Lipscani District), a labyrinth of cobbled streets lined with charming cafes, trendy bars, and historic landmarks. Stop by Caru’ cu Bere, an iconic beerhouse that’s been serving delicious Romanian dishes since 1879, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
For a taste of culture, visit the Romanian Athenaeum, a stunning neoclassical concert hall that hosts world-class performances. Its circular domed ceiling and intricate frescoes make it a must-see for art lovers. Nearby, the National Museum of Art of Romania, housed in the former Royal Palace, showcases masterpieces by Romanian and international artists.
Escape the urban bustle with a leisurely walk in Herastrau Park, a sprawling green oasis surrounding Lake Herastrau. Rent a boat, cycle along the trails, or simply relax with a coffee by the water.
Bucharest’s charm lies not only in its grand architecture but also in its subtle details. Keep an eye out for hidden gems like Carturesti Carusel, a stunning bookstore with spiral staircases and light-flooded interiors, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.
As night falls, the city transforms. Bucharest’s nightlife is legendary, offering everything from live music in underground clubs to elegant wine bars. Whether you’re sipping Romanian wine or dancing until dawn, you’ll find the city’s energy infectious.
Bucharest invites you to dive deep into its history, enjoy its modern luxuries, and uncover its secrets. Whether you’re wandering its grand boulevards or tucked away in a quiet café, the city promises memories that linger long after you’ve left.
Romania: A Land of Wonders
Welcome to Romania, a country where history, nature, and culture intertwine to create an unforgettable experience. Tucked away in Eastern Europe, Romania is a treasure trove of medieval castles, pristine landscapes, and vibrant traditions that will captivate your heart.
A Journey Through Time
Romania’s story begins with its ancient roots, best explored in Transylvania, the land of myths and legends. Here, you’ll find Bran Castle, famously associated with Dracula. Perched on a hill, this Gothic fortress exudes mystery and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
For a deeper dive into history, visit Sighisoara, a beautifully preserved medieval town and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Its colorful houses and cobbled streets make it feel like stepping into a fairy tale.
In Bucharest, the capital, the grandeur of Palace of the Parliament contrasts with the charm of the Old Town, where cafes and historical landmarks blend seamlessly.
A Natural Wonderland
Romania’s landscapes are as diverse as its history. The Carpathian Mountains offer endless opportunities for hiking, skiing, and wildlife spotting. In Piatra Craiului National Park, you can trek through breathtaking gorges and lush forests.
For a unique adventure, explore the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This vast wetland is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 300 species of birds, and offers serene boat rides through its maze of waterways.
The Black Sea Coast boasts sandy beaches and lively resorts like Mamaia, perfect for soaking up the sun or enjoying water sports.
Cultural Riches
Romania’s culture is as rich as its scenery. The traditional villages of Maramureș are living museums, where wooden churches and folk customs have stood the test of time. Watch craftsmen carve intricate designs or listen to locals recount age-old tales.
In Bucovina, the Painted Monasteries showcase vibrant frescoes that narrate biblical stories. These UNESCO-protected sites are masterpieces of art and faith.
Don’t miss the chance to savor Romanian cuisine. From hearty sarmale (cabbage rolls) to sweet papanasi (fried doughnuts with cream and jam), every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Hospitality and Magic
Romania’s greatest treasure is its people. Warm and welcoming, Romanians take pride in sharing their culture and stories. Whether you’re exploring lively cities, hiking in the wild, or joining a village festival, you’ll feel at home.
Romania invites you to discover its hidden gems and live its legends. Whether you’re wandering medieval streets, marveling at painted monasteries, or standing in awe of nature’s beauty, this land of wonders promises memories that will last a lifetime.