Improving heart function in patients with single ventricle defects
Cavopulmonary Assist to Reverse the Fontan
This study is testing a new device that helps improve blood flow for patients who have had Fontan surgery for heart defects, with the hope of making their hearts work better and enhancing their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10684230 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treat patients who have undergone Fontan repair for single functional ventricle defects. It aims to address chronic circulatory inefficiency by introducing a device that can augment blood flow, effectively replacing the missing power source needed to pump blood through the lungs. The goal is to reverse the Fontan circulation to a more stable two-ventricle physiology, potentially leading to significant improvements in heart function and quality of life for these patients. The study will involve careful biomechanical assessments to ensure the device functions effectively within the complex circulatory system of these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have undergone Fontan repair and are experiencing chronic circulatory issues.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of single ventricle defects or have not undergone Fontan repair may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new therapeutic option that significantly improves heart function and quality of life for patients with single ventricle defects.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of augmenting blood flow in Fontan patients is innovative, similar strategies in other contexts have shown promise, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rodefeld, Mark D — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Rodefeld, Mark D
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.