Conclusions and Future Directions for Neurodevelopmental Research and Interventions in Congenital Heart Disease

In this concluding chapter we draw together the evidence presented throughout the book and discuss the nature of the neurodevelopmental and psychological phenotype which is emerging. We further discuss those factors which we have demonstrated as amplifying risk or conferring benefits, and we propose a working model which synthesizes these conclusions and offers a tool to aid clinical formulation of presenting difficulties. Finally, we consider the important lessons learned from our work, the directions for future research and clinical practice, and the potential to weave such interventions, or elements thereof, throughout pediatric cardiology services across cultures and continents.