What are the long-term issues after the Fontan procedure?
Long-term issues after the Fontan procedure may include arrhythmias, stroke, neurodevelopmental delay, and the need for additional cardiac procedures. Arrhythmias are common in adults with congenital heart disease, and can be caused by anatomic factors, cardiomyopathy, and metabolic disturbances. Strokes in adults with congenital heart disease are associated with increased mortality and morbidity, as well as neurodevelopmental delay. Additionally, additional cardiac procedures may be necessary to treat arrhythmias or other complications. The use of novel oral anticoagulants has been studied in adult Fontan patients to reduce the risk of stroke.  