Title:Fontan Circulation Might be Associated with Peripartum Cardiomyopathy:
A Review of Mechanistic and Clinical Aspects
Volume: 17
Issue: 6
Author(s): Kenan Yalta, Ertan Yetkin*Gokay Taylan
Affiliation:
- Cardiology Department, Derindere Hospital, Istanbul,
Turkey
Keywords:
Fontan operation, fontan circulation, peripartum cardiomyopathy, potential mechanisms, inflammation-oxidation, clinical perspectives.
Abstract: Fontan operation has been defined as a palliative surgery connecting systemic venous return
and pulmonary circulation in patients with certain forms of complex congenital heart disease
(CHD). Fortunately, it has improved overall survival and chance of successful pregnancies among
these patients. However, Fontan circulation (FC), as a potential trade-off, might be associated with
specific late or post-gestational complications, including peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM)
largely through its adverse effects on the placenta and inflammation-oxidation stress. Importantly,
diagnosis of superimposed PPCM in women with FC might be a diagnostic challenge, requiring a
high index of suspicion. Accordingly, the present paper aims to highlight the potential association
of FC with PPCM evolution largely based on certain mechanistic and clinical perspectives.
