Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026
06:29
Wireless Telemetry Device Implantation in a Fontan Ovine Model for Continuous and Long-Term Hemodynamic Monitoring
Published on: May 2, 2025
Functionally Single-Ventricle Complications After Fontan Palliation-A Narrative Review
Małgorzata Kowalczyk1, Mirosław Kowalski1
1Department of Adult Congenital Heart Disease, National Institute of Cardiology in Warsaw, 04-628 Warsaw, Poland.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|May 13, 2026
Summary
Functionally single-ventricle (FSV) defects require Fontan palliation, leading to long-term complications like organ dysfunction and psychosocial challenges. Comprehensive, multidisciplinary care is essential for managing these complex pediatric heart conditions.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Functionally single-ventricle (FSV) defects are complex congenital heart anomalies necessitating Fontan palliation.
- Fontan circulation, while improving survival, presents unique physiological challenges predisposing patients to long-term complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the spectrum of cardiovascular and systemic complications associated with Fontan physiology.
- To highlight the impact of these complications on patients' quality of life and the need for comprehensive management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on Fontan palliation outcomes.
- Analysis of cardiovascular, systemic, and psychosocial complications in FSV patients.
Main Results:
- Key cardiovascular issues include ventricular dysfunction, valve regurgitation, arrhythmias, and thromboembolic events.
- Systemic complications comprise Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD), protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), plastic bronchitis (PB), renal, endocrine, and psychosocial burdens.
- These complications lead to frequent hospitalizations and impaired life opportunities.
Conclusions:
- Fontan physiology poses significant long-term risks requiring vigilant monitoring and management.
- A multidisciplinary approach is crucial to address the complex interplay of hemodynamic, organ-specific, and psychosocial factors in Fontan patients.
Related Concept Videos
01:29Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
01:22Mitral Stenosis I: Introduction
Mitral Valve Stenosis (MVS) is a heart condition where the mitral valve narrows, impeding blood circulation from the left atrium to the left ventricle. The etiology and pathophysiology of this condition are multifaceted, leading to a cascade of cardiovascular complications.Causes of Mitral Valve StenosisRheumatic Heart Disease: It is the main cause of mitral valve stenosis, particularly in developing nations. This condition arises from rheumatic fever, an inflammatory illness resulting from...
01:20Mitral Regurgitation I: Introduction
Mitral regurgitation is characterized by the backward circulation of blood from the left ventricle to the left atrium during systole, a phase of the cardiac cycle when the heart contracts and pumps blood out of the chambers. This abnormal flow occurs primarily due to the dysfunction of the mitral valve or its supporting structures, which include the mitral leaflets, chordae tendineae, annulus, and papillary muscles.Etiology and Mechanisms:Primary Mitral Regurgitation: This type arises from...
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...