How blood flow and vessel flexibility affect heart function in children after surgery for congenital heart defects
Impact of Blood Viscosity and Vascular Compliance on Fontan Circulation Dysfunction in Children
This study is looking at how thick blood and the flexibility of blood vessels affect the heart function in children who have had surgery for congenital heart defects, helping us understand their unique circulation challenges and find ways to predict potential heart problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11026426 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how blood viscosity and the flexibility of blood vessels impact the heart function of children who have undergone the Fontan surgical procedure for congenital heart defects. By using advanced imaging techniques, specifically 4-D flow magnetic resonance imaging, the study aims to understand the unique circulation challenges these children face. The researchers will analyze how variations in blood flow characteristics relate to clinical signs of heart failure, helping to identify potential predictors of complications. This approach combines computational modeling with real patient data to provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of Fontan circulation dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who have undergone the Fontan procedure for congenital heart defects.
Not a fit: Patients who have not had the Fontan procedure or are older than 11 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved monitoring and treatment strategies for children with Fontan circulation, potentially reducing the risk of heart failure and enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding blood flow dynamics in similar patient populations, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Children's Hospital of Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheng, Andrew L — Children's Hospital of Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Cheng, Andrew L
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.