fenestration
A surgically created small opening, often used in congenital heart surgery to allow controlled mixing of blood.
Full Definition
In cardiac surgery, fenestration refers to the deliberate creation of a small opening or window in surgical patches, conduits, or anatomical structures. This technique is commonly employed in congenital heart surgery, particularly in Fontan procedures, where a fenestration in the Fontan baffle allows for decompression of the systemic venous system at the cost of mild desaturation. Fenestrations can also be created in other contexts, such as patch closures of septal defects, to provide a controlled communication that can later be closed percutaneously if indicated. The size and location of fenestrations are carefully planned based on patient-specific hemodynamics.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from unintended openings; fenestrations are deliberate surgical features with specific physiologic purposes.
In Context
- "A 4mm fenestration was created in the Fontan baffle to optimize postoperative hemodynamics." — Congenital heart surgery report
- "The fenestration was successfully closed percutaneously six months after the initial Fontan completion." — Interventional follow-up note