Early Results of Extracardiac Fontan Procedure with Autologous Pericardial Tube Conduit

Abstract

Background: Different types of conduits are used for extracardiac Fontan procedure. The use of autologous pericardial tube as an alternative conduit for connecting the inferior vena cava to the pulmonary artery is investigated. Methods: We performed 25 extracardiac Fontan procedures by using pericardial tube between June 2000 and October 2003. Fifteen patients were male. Mean age and weight were 7.6 ± 4.9 years (range 3 to 24 years) and 22.8 ± 10.4 kg (range 12 - 50 kg), respectively. Results: All patients survived after extracardiac Fontan procedure. Prolonged chest tube drainage (> 7 days) was required in 9 (36 %) patients. Follow-up was complete and mean follow-up was 24.6 ± 11.5 months (1 - 39 months). One patient died 3 months postoperatively. Routine serial postoperative echocardiographic examinations in all patients and magnetic resonance angiography in 6 patients with suspect flow patterns in echocardiography did not reveal any problems with the Fontan circuit. Conclusions: Fresh autologous pericardial tube conduit is a suitable and safe alternative for extracardiac Fontan procedures. Major advantages are availability, no cost, easy handling and hemostasis, low risk of thrombosis and emboli, and growth potential.

Key words

Congenital heart disease - univentricular heart - extracardiac Fontan

References

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