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Late arrhythmias following fontan surgery
1Division of Cardiology, Children's Memorial Hospital and Department of Pediatrics, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
World Journal for Pediatric & Congenital Heart Surgery
|June 28, 2013
Summary
Surgical modifications have significantly reduced the incidence of atrial tachycardia after Fontan repair, from 60% to under 20%. Ventricular tachycardia affects 3-12% of patients, and improving hemodynamics may enhance clinical outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Cardiac Surgery
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Fontan repair is a complex surgical procedure for single-ventricle congenital heart defects.
- Atrial arrhythmias are a known complication following Fontan procedures.
- The incidence and type of arrhythmias can vary based on surgical techniques and follow-up duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the incidence of atrial arrhythmias post-Fontan repair.
- To evaluate the impact of surgical modifications on late atrial tachycardia rates.
- To report the occurrence of late ventricular tachycardia in this patient population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of patient data following Fontan repair.
- Comparison of arrhythmia incidence before and after surgical modifications.
- Documentation of late ventricular tachycardia rates.
Main Results:
- Surgical modifications have decreased the incidence of late atrial tachycardia from 60% to less than 20%.
- Late ventricular tachycardia is observed in 3% to 12% of patients.
- Arrhythmia incidence is dependent on surgical approach and follow-up length.
Conclusions:
- Surgical advancements have improved outcomes regarding atrial arrhythmias after Fontan repair.
- Aggressive management of tachycardia and hemodynamic optimization are crucial for clinical improvement.
- Further research into managing ventricular tachycardia post-Fontan is warranted.
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