Contrast‐Enhanced Computed Tomography/Magnetic Resonance Imaging Is Useful for Surveying Gastroesophageal Varices in Patients After Fontan Surgery

Abstract

ABSTRACTObjectivesLiver cirrhosis (LC) is a common complication of Fontan surgery (FS) because of the inherent risk of chronic hepatic congestion, and often leads to gastroesophageal varices (GEVs). However, little is known regarding the factors involved in the development of GEVs in patients following FS.MethodsThis study included 50 patients who had undergone FS, and were evaluated for abdominal complications between November 2007 and December 2024 through contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The presence of GEVs, mainly esophageal varices (EVs), was determined by the imaging data.ResultsThe number of the patients who developed GEVs and collateral veins following FS were 12 (24%) and 7 (14%), respectively, as evaluated by imaging. No significant differences were observed between the age, sex, and duration from FS to imaging, and blood biochemistry indices of patients with (n = 12) and without EVs (n = 38). However, collateral veins were more prevalent among patients with EVs compared to those without EVs (p = 0.002). In addition, patients with collateral veins had poor ALBI scores than those lacking collateral veins (p = 0.032).ConclusionsThe presence of GEVs following FS could not be predicted by blood biochemical indices and other clinical factors, although EVs were more frequently observed in patients with collateral veins. Contrast‐enhanced CT or MRI can be useful for surveying GEVs in patients following FS.Trial RegistrationThe study protocol was approved by the Institutional Review Board of Nagoya City University (approval number: 60‐24‐0125)