Pathophysiology of thrombosis and anticoagulation post Fontan surgery

Abstract

The Fontan procedure has transformed the lives of children born with single-ventricle physiology, previously deemed inoperable. Worldwide, there are an increasing number of children with Fontan circulation, with the potential for survival into adulthood. Due to the abnormal circulation, Fontan patients have an increased risk of thromboembolic (TE) events, with up to 25% of events leading to death. Despite the importance of preventing TE events in this patient population, there is currently no clinical consensus on the optimal monitoring, thromboprophylaxis therapies, and treatment of these events. This paper reviews the available literature regarding anticoagulation in the pediatric and adult Fontan population, including the mechanisms for thrombosis and current antithrombotic therapies.

Keywords: Anticoagulant therapy; Anticoagulants; Antithrombotic therapy; Fontan.