Incidence and impact of systemic venous collateral development after Glenn and Fontan procedures

M Heinemann1, J Breuer, V Steger

  • 1Abteilung für Thorax-, Herz- und Gefässchirurgie, Universitätsklinik Tübingen, Germany. heinemann@uni-mainz.de

Insights

Systemic venous collaterals can develop after Glenn or Fontan procedures, impacting heart function. Early identification and intervention for these venous connections are crucial for patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Surgery
  • Pediatric Cardiology
  • Vascular Biology

Background:

  • Univentricular heart disease poses challenges post-Glenn or Fontan procedures.
  • Systemic venous collateral development can impair ventricular function and cause desaturation.

Observation:

  • Seventy-nine patients undergoing Glenn or Fontan procedures were analyzed.
  • Systemic venous collaterals were detected in 20.2% of patients postoperatively.
  • Common sites included brachiocephalic/pericardial veins and the azygos/hemiazygos system.

Findings:

  • Nineteen veno-venous connections were identified.
  • Drainage pathways varied, including pulmonary veins and the left atrium.
  • Five patients required intervention (catheter embolization or surgical closure) for low saturations, all with improved outcomes.

Implications:

  • Increased central venous pressure post-Fontan/Glenn may reactivate embryonic vessels.
  • Pre- and postoperative evaluation of collateral sites is essential.
  • Ligation during surgery and interventional/surgical closure are vital management strategies.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management01:23

Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management

During the postoperative period, it is crucial to focus on maintaining circulation, identifying and managing potential complications, and planning for discharge.Nursing AssessmentVital signs monitoring: Regularly monitor vital signs, including blood pressure, heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature, to detect early signs of complications such as bleeding and infection.Circulation assessment: Monitor pulses, perform Doppler assessments, and check capillary refill, color, temperature, and...
Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care01:26

Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care

Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction01:30

Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction

Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:20

Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care01:29

Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care

Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management01:30

Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management

Nursing management begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's health history. Key factors include trauma to veins, peripherally inserted central catheters, varicose veins, recent pregnancy or childbirth, surgery, bacteremia, prolonged bed rest, atrial fibrillation, COPD, heart failure, cancer, coagulation disorders, myocardial infarction, spinal cord injury, stroke, prolonged travel, recent bone fractures, and dehydration. Review medication intake, particularly oral contraceptives,...