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. 2015 Nov;17(11):51.
doi: 10.1007/s11936-015-0412-z.

Fontan Liver Disease: Review of an Emerging Epidemic and Management Options

Elisa Bradley  1   2 , Benjamin Hendrickson  3   4 , Curt Daniels  3   4
Affiliations

Fontan Liver Disease: Review of an Emerging Epidemic and Management Options

Elisa Bradley et al. Curr Treat Options Cardiovasc Med. 2015 Nov.

Abstract

Adults with complex congenital heart disease that resulted in a Fontan procedure frequently experience late cardiac failure. Increasingly, liver disease is recognized as an important complication of single-ventricle anatomy and Fontan physiology; however, there is no consensus regarding liver evaluation in this population. Here, we review what is known about liver disease in this unique group and propose screening and prevention measures. We also review controversial treatment areas including assist devices and transplantation, with a review of outcomes in isolated heart and combined heart-liver transplant.

Keywords: Cirrhosis; Fontan; Liver disease; Single ventricle.

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Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Trichrome stain of liver biopsy showing modified Scheuer stage 3 sinusoidal fibrosis. Reproduced with permission [13].
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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