Adult patients with Fontan procedures are likely to have ongoing complications. The abnormality of Fontan circulation can lead to problems in other organs, along with malformations in body composition and cognitive deficits. Over time, complications may include:
- Arrhythmia
- Blood clots
- Cirrhosis
- Heart failure
- Kidney disease
- Liver cancer
- Plastic bronchitis, a rare type of bronchitis where lymph fluid builds up in the lungs
- Protein-losing enteropathy, a syndrome where your intestines do not absorb the proteins your body needs to function properly
Adult Fontan patients are also likely to face mental health issues. Research has found around one-third of Fontan patients likely have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. A high percentage of patients also struggle with anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.
