Getting Familiar with the Fontan Procedure for Tricuspid Atresia

Overview

A group of birth abnormalities that impair the heart's normal functions are referred to as congenital heart disease. One such congenital heart disease is tricuspid atresia. Fortunately, advancements in cardiac sciences have carved their way to treating congenital tricuspid atresia through the Fontan procedure. Here we’ve discussed Fontan’s procedure, in brief, to make you understand the procedure in an easier way.

Understanding the surgery: Fontan Procedure

Congenital heart disease refers to a group of birth abnormalities that disrupt the proper functioning of the heart.

Tricuspid atresia is characterized by full agenesis of the tricuspid valve and the absence of direct contact between the right atrium and right ventricle. Such a cardiac condition is effectively treated by the Fontan procedure.

Also, Read - Types Of Heart Disease - Symptoms, Cause, Risk Factors

Why does your child need to undergo the Fontan procedure?

The Fontan treatment is performed on children born with cardiac defects such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS), tricuspid atresia, and a double outlet right ventricle.

Depending on the severity of the cardiac disease, children may require procedures to be performed prior to Fontan surgery.

Also, Read - Can People With Heart Disease Lift Weights?

What can you expect after the Fontan procedure?

Children who have the Fontan operation often spend one to two weeks in the hospital recovering. They are cared for and monitored around the clock. They also receive medications to support their hearts and blood flow. They will continue to take some of these medications at home.

The care team teaches parents how to care for their children at home throughout this period. When children are fed well, growing well, and gaining weight, they can typically go home.

Many kids thrive and perform well after having heart surgery. They'll need to see a cardiologist on a frequent basis to get EKGs, echocardiograms, lab tests, and cardiac catheterizations. Cardiac catheterization is a procedure that allows cardiologists to examine and treat the heart.

When should you seek medical help?

Please contact the care team straight away if your child:

• is not eating enough.
• is throwing up
• appears to be breathing quickly or struggling hard to breathe.
• oxygen levels are lower than usual.
• appears to be irritable.
• something doesn't seem entirely right.

Also, Read - How To Know Heart Blockage Without Angiography?

How can you help your child during this journey?

Follow the care team's advice about:

• Administering any medication
• Going to follow-up doctor appointments
• Examining the lips and nails for blueness

If you have any questions about how to care for your kid following surgery, contact your surgeon or care team.

Also, Read - Healthy Heart Tips - 9 Ways To Keep Your Heart Healthy

How can we help with the treatment?

If you are in search of cardiac treatment in India, we will serve as your guide throughout your medical treatment in India and will be physically present with you even before your treatment begins. The following will be provided to you:

• Opinions of expert physicians and surgeons
• Transparent communication
• Coordinated care
• Prior appointment with specialists
• Assistance with hospital formalities
• 24*7 availability
• Arrangements for travel
• Assistance for accommodation and healthy recovery
• Assistance in emergencies

Our team is dedicated to offering the highest quality health trip and care to our patients. We have a team of highly qualified and devoted health professionals that will be by your side from the beginning of your journey.