Surgical outcomes of reoperation after Fontan completion

Abstract

OBJECTIVES Patients who have achieved Fontan circulation may require reoperation. We reviewed the outcomes of reoperation after Fontan completion and assessed the risk factors for poor outcomes. METHODS This was a retrospective study of 106 patients undergoing open-heart reoperations after Fontan completion in 2003 at a single institution. RESULTS The mean age at reoperation was 24.6 ± 8.3 years. A history of Fontan failure or end-organ dysfunction was noted in 30 patients. The reoperations included 73 total cavopulmonary connection conversions, 29 atrioventricular or semilunar valve operations (17 with total cavopulmonary connection conversions) and 4 other operations. Eight early deaths occurred. During a median follow-up of 5.5 (0.01–16.2) years, there were 3 late deaths and 9 second cardiac operations. The 10-year survival rate after reoperation was 89.8%, and the 5-year second cardiac operation-free survival was 84.3%. The 10-year survival rates were significantly lower in patients who underwent surgery before 2011 (75.8% vs 100%), had a history of Fontan failure or end-organ dysfunction (71.7% vs 97.3%), had preoperative central venous pressure >15 mmHg (64.9% vs 96.5%) and were operated on with deep hypothermic circulatory arrest (DHCA) (60.0% vs 91.3%). A history of Fontan failure or end-organ dysfunction, preoperative central venous pressure >15 mmHg and requirement of DHCA were identified as risk factors for mortality. CONCLUSIONS Reoperation after Fontan completion resulted in excellent mid-term outcomes. A history of failed Fontan circulation and the requirement of DHCA negatively affected survival outcomes.

The Fontan procedure is no longer the last operation

“…While we do realize that these patients have an increasing need for reoperation, we are still uncertain of the best timing at which to offer this surgery. In this perspective, the article in this issue by Nakayama et al [ 3 ] brings some light to this question. In their retrospective work, the procedures presented are somewhat different than those we will face in the future.…”