Fontan circulation
Pronunciation: FON-tan
Surgical palliation for single ventricle congenital heart disease where systemic venous return bypasses the heart directly to pulmonary circulation.
Full Definition
Fontan circulation is a unique physiological state created surgically in patients with functionally univentricular hearts. In this circulation, systemic venous blood is directed passively to the pulmonary arteries without passing through a subpulmonary ventricle, while the single functioning ventricle pumps oxygenated blood to the systemic circulation. This complex surgical palliation involves multiple staged procedures and results in a circulation that operates at higher venous pressures and lower cardiac output than normal biventricular circulation. Patients with Fontan circulation require lifelong specialized cardiac care and monitoring for complications such as protein-losing enteropathy and arrhythmias.
Usage
Usage note: Named after French surgeon François Fontan. Capitalize when referring to the specific circulation type.
In Context
- "The patient with Fontan circulation presented with exercise intolerance and cyanosis." — Cardiology consultation
- "Long-term outcomes in Fontan circulation depend on maintaining low pulmonary vascular resistance." — Research paper