Understanding how Fontan obstruction affects quality of life and exercise in patients with single ventricle heart defects

Quantification of Fontan Obstruction as a Marker for Quality of Life and Exercise Performance

['FUNDING_R15'] · WORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE · NIH-10986750

This study is looking at how the Fontan surgery affects people with single ventricle heart defects over time, focusing on how changes in heart structure and function relate to their quality of life and ability to stay active.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWORCESTER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10986750 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the long-term complications faced by patients who have undergone the Fontan procedure for single ventricle heart defects. It aims to redefine Fontan obstruction by considering both the geometry of the total cavopulmonary connection and the performance of the heart's ventricle. By doing so, the study seeks to quantify how this new definition of obstruction correlates with patients' quality of life and their ability to exercise. Patients will be assessed to determine the impact of these factors on their overall health and well-being.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone the Fontan procedure for single ventricle heart defects.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of single ventricle heart defects or have not undergone the Fontan procedure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved assessments and interventions that enhance the quality of life and exercise capacity for Fontan patients.

How similar studies have performed: While previous studies have explored aspects of Fontan obstruction, this approach of integrating ventricular performance with obstruction metrics is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

WORCESTER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.