Fontan circulation
Pronunciation: FON-tan
Surgically created single-ventricle circulation requiring specialized anesthetic management in pediatric patients.
Full Definition
The Fontan circulation is a palliative surgical reconstruction for patients with single-ventricle congenital heart disease, where systemic venous return flows passively to the pulmonary arteries without a pumping chamber. This unique physiology creates specific anesthetic challenges including preload dependence, afterload sensitivity, and vulnerability to increases in pulmonary vascular resistance. Anesthesia management requires maintaining adequate venous return, avoiding positive pressure ventilation when possible, and preventing factors that increase pulmonary pressures. These patients are at risk for arrhythmias, thromboembolism, and protein-losing enteropathy.
Usage
Usage note: Named procedure; capitalize Fontan but not circulation.
In Context
- "The patient's Fontan circulation required spontaneous ventilation and careful fluid management during the dental procedure." — Anesthesia plan
- "Given the Fontan circulation physiology, we avoided nitrous oxide and maintained low pulmonary vascular resistance." — Perioperative note