Related Experiment Videos
[A case report of redo Fontan operation]
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Nagoya University, School of Medicine, Japan.
[Zasshi] [Journal]. Nihon Kyobu Geka Gakkai
|August 1, 1993
Summary
A patient with a history of Fontan operation experienced heart failure due to atrial fibrillation and a blocked conduit. Redo surgery successfully restored function, allowing a return to vigorous physical activity.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiac Surgery
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- The Fontan operation is a palliative procedure for complex single-ventricle congenital heart disease.
- Long-term complications include conduit stenosis and thromboembolism.
- Atrial fibrillation can precipitate heart failure in Fontan patients.
Observation:
- A 21-year-old male, 15 years post-Fontan operation for tricuspid atresia type 1b, presented with right-sided heart failure and atrial fibrillation.
- Cardiac catheterization revealed a significant trans-valved conduit pressure gradient (5.2 mmHg).
- Imaging demonstrated right atrial thrombus and a right upper lobe perfusion defect.
Findings:
- The patient underwent a redo Fontan operation, involving conduit resection, thrombectomy, and reconstruction with a bovine pericardial conduit.
- Post-operative recovery was uneventful.
- Three months after surgery, the patient resumed vigorous physical activity.
Implications:
- Redo Fontan operations can be effective in managing complications like conduit stenosis and thrombus formation.
- Successful surgical intervention can restore cardiac function and improve quality of life in Fontan survivors.
- This case highlights the importance of long-term surveillance and timely re-intervention for Fontan patients.