Does COVID-19 pose a threat for patients after univentricular palliation? Thrombosis of the Fontan tunnel

Cardiol Young. 2022 Oct;32(10):1698-1700. doi: 10.1017/S1047951122000348. Epub 2022 Jan 28.

Abstract

A 6-year-old boy, born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, underwent total cavopulmonary connection and later presented in a significantly deteriorated condition. A CT scan revealed multiple thrombi in the extracardiac conduit, although the patient was maintained on an effective anticoagulant therapy. Further examination revealed anamnestic antibodies suggesting that the patient had gone through a clinically inapparent COVID-19 infection, which we conclude most likely contributed to his hypercoagulable state and led to the formation of significant thrombi impairing the patient's haemodynamics. The patient underwent a surgical thrombectomy; there were no post-operative thrombotic complications.

Keywords: COVID-19; thrombosis; total cavopulmonary connection; univentricular circulation.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Anticoagulants / therapeutic use
  • COVID-19*
  • Child
  • Fontan Procedure* / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome* / surgery
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications
  • Thrombosis* / etiology

Substances

  • Anticoagulants