Update on the modified Fontan procedure.
There have been multiple modifications for surgical palliation of functional single ventricle since the initial report by Fontan and Baudet in 1971. A modified Fontan procedure has been offered to patients with a variety of complex cyanotic heart disease at younger ages, and has resulted in decreased mortality. Reducing morbidity continues to be a challenge. These issues are multiple and include effusions, arrhythmia, ventricular function, exercise ability, progressive cyanosis from pulmonary arteriovenous malformations, systemic to hepatic venovenous malformations or atrial level shunting, thromboembolism, and protein-losing enteropathy. This article reviews clinical contributions published in the past year.
Geggel
R L
RL
Floating Hospital for Children, New England Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Boston, MA 02111, USA.
D002675:Child, Preschool; D018729:Fontan Procedure / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods; D006330:Heart Defects, Congenital / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D011183:Postoperative Complications