The Hemi Fontan Procedure is a surgical procedure used to treat congenital heart defects. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as "ˈhɛmi fɒnˈtæn prəˈsiːdʒər". The "hemi" is pronounced with the "h" sound at the start, followed by "e" with a short "e" vowel sound and "mi" with a long "i" vowel sound. "Fontan" is pronounced with the stress on the first syllable, and "procedur" with a long "e" sound and stress on the second syllable. The correct spelling of the word is important for effective communication within the medical community.
The Hemi Fontan Procedure is a surgical technique used in the treatment of certain congenital heart defects, specifically those involving a single ventricle. This procedure is typically performed as part of a staged surgical approach for patients who have undergone a previous surgery, such as the Norwood Procedure, to redirect blood flow and normalize circulation.
During the Hemi Fontan Procedure, a connection, or shunt, is created between the pulmonary artery and the superior vena cava. This allows blood returning from the upper body to be directed to the lungs for oxygenation. The procedure essentially diverts a portion of the venous blood flow away from the heart's single ventricle, reducing the volume of blood that needs to be pumped by the heart and alleviating strain on the organ.
The Hemi Fontan Procedure is typically performed in infants or young children, providing an intermediate step towards the eventual Fontan Procedure, which completes the surgical pathway for this anatomical repair. This staged approach allows the child's heart to adjust gradually and adapt to the changes made during each procedure.
The Hemi Fontan Procedure is associated with certain risks and potential complications, such as blood clot formation, arrhythmias, or leakage around the shunt. However, it offers significant benefits in terms of improving oxygenation, reducing heart workload, and enhancing overall circulatory function in patients with complex congenital heart defects.