Long-Term Kidney Function After the Fontan Operation: JACC Review Topic of the Week

Abstract

The Fontan procedure has improved survival and quality of life for patients with single ventricle physiology. Along with extended life expectancy comes a growing population that is experiencing long-term multiorgan adverse effects. Whereas cardiorenal interactions have been extensively studied in patients with a structurally normal heart, these are less well understood in patients with a single ventricle. Several studies have investigated the prevalence of reduced glomerular filtration rate and albuminuria in the Fontan population; however, the long-term implication of renal dysfunction is not well established in this population. This paper provides a concise review of the published reports on the pathophysiology and spectrum of Fontan-associated renal disease. It also identifies gaps in currently available evidence that can guide ongoing and future research.

Keywords: Fontan; chronic kidney disease; cystatin C; renal resistive index.