Improving heart surgery outcomes for patients with single ventricle defects
A Novel computational approach to optimize Fontan and improve surgical predictability
This study is working on improving the Fontan surgery for patients with single ventricle defects by using advanced technology to make blood flow better and reduce complications, so that patients can have safer surgeries and healthier lives afterward.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11020938 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the Fontan surgical procedure, which is a critical treatment for patients with single ventricle defects. By developing an automated computational fluid dynamics workflow, the project aims to optimize blood flow and reduce complications such as thrombosis and pulmonary arteriovenous malformations after surgery. Patients will benefit from improved surgical planning and predictability, leading to better long-term health outcomes. The approach involves advanced imaging and algorithms to create a more effective surgical pathway.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old with single ventricle defects requiring Fontan surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with heart conditions that do not involve single ventricle defects may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective heart surgeries for patients with complex congenital heart defects.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using computational approaches to improve surgical outcomes, indicating that this method could be a valuable advancement in cardiac surgery.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Govindarajan, Vijay — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Govindarajan, Vijay
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.