Converting the Fontan Circulation: Challenges and Evolution

Abstract

The Fontan operation, the final palliative step after a series of complex operations in patients with univentricular hearts, has undergone multiple modifications throughout the last decades, with the goal of finding the method which combines the optimal hemodynamic effects of the Fontan circulation with minimal long term side effects. An understanding of the operative evolution and subsequent side effects, as well as the management thereof seems imperative. Since its inception by Francis Fontan the, now obsolete, initial atriopulmonary connection has passed through several milestones into having now reached the era of total cavopulmonary connection. However, recently published results bring to light the new option of biventricular conversion which comes to challenge the management of Fontan patients as we know it. Currently, there is no consensus as to whether to continue with palliation in this challenging group of patients or proceed with heart transplantation. In this collective review, we provide a historic overview of the Fontan evolution as well as future insights, discussing the perspectives of options for patients with failing Fontan, including the latest addition of biventricular correction.