Key result
A pregnant woman with hypoplastic left heart syndrome palliated with a univentricular repair experienced premature delivery and atypical placental findings.
Why the study?
The coexistence of Fontan physiology and pregnancy is not fully understood, complicating management of pregnant Fontan patients and fetal and placental perfusion.
Case Report (n=1)
Histopathological analysis of the placenta in Fontan pregnancies may provide insights into physiological adaptation and help predict maternal and fetal outcomes.
Individualized counseling remains essential in Fontan pregnancies; extends sparse case data but leaves optimal management open.
OBJECTIVES: The coexistence of two complex physiologies such as Fontan and pregnancy is still not fully understood. We aim to add a unique and essential knowledge to help our colleagues in the management of Fontan patients that undergo pregnancy as well as the fetus and the placenta perfusion. METHODS AND RESULTS: We analyse the coexistence of Fontan and pregnancy physiology on a complex case of a woman with hypoplastic left heart syndrome palliated with a univentricular repair who became pregnant, delivered very prematurely and had atypical placental findings. CONCLUSION: Histopathological analysis of the placenta could help us to refine the understanding of Fontan physiology adaptation during pregnancy, predict women and fetal outcomes as well as to plan a better pre-pregnancy status. However, further evidence is needed in order to reach a more solid and unified conclusion.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Ordoñez et al. (2021) conducted a case report in Fontan pregnancy / hypoplastic left heart syndrome (n=1). Pregnancy in Fontan physiology was evaluated on Placental findings and premature delivery. A pregnant woman with hypoplastic left heart syndrome palliated with a univentricular repair experienced premature delivery and atypical placental findings.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: