Single Center Experience With Durable Continuous Flow Single Ventricle Assist Device: A Viable Option in Fontan Circulatory Failure

Abstract

Ventricular assist devices are increasingly used for patients with single ventricle physiology. We describe the use of durable, continuous flow, single ventricular assist device (SVAD) therapy in Fontan circulatory failure patients. Retrospective, single-center review of patients with Fontan circulation implanted with a SVAD between 2017 and 2022. Patient characteristics and outcomes were obtained by chart review. Nine patients underwent SVAD implantation (median age 24 years). Most patients had a total cavopulmonary connection; one had an atriopulmonary Fontan. Five patients had a systemic right ventricle. SVAD was most often utilized as bridge to candidacy (67%). Eight patients had at least moderate systemic ventricular systolic dysfunction. SVAD support continued for a median of 65 days (longest duration, 1,105 days) and one patient remains on support at time of submission. Of five patients discharged home, median length of stay after SVAD was 24 days. Six patients were transplanted (median 96 days from SVAD). Two patients died from pretransplant multisystem organ failure before transplant. All transplanted patients remain alive (median time since transplant 593 days). Continuous flow SVAD therapy can be effective for patients with Fontan circulatory failure and systolic dysfunction. Further studies should investigate feasibility and optimal SVAD timing with more advanced Fontan associated end-organ dysfunction.