Thoracic Duct Decompression for Protein-Losing Enteropathy in Failing Fontan Circulation.

António, Marta; Gordo, Andreia; Pereira, Conceição; Pinto, Fátima; Fragata, Isabel; Fragata, José · Ann Thorac Surg · 2016

case_report · Level V

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Abstract

An infrequent but devastating late complication of Fontan circulation is protein-losing enteropathy (PLE), which results from unbalanced lymphatic homeostasis. Surgical decompression of the thoracic duct by redirecting its drainage to the pulmonary venous atrium has been introduced recently as a possible treatment. This report describes a single-institution experience with this innovative procedure in 2 patients with failing Fontan circulation with PLE refractory to optimized medical therapy.

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