The Effect of Fontan Fenestration Closure on Hepatic Stiffness

Methods Eligible patients will be contacted in advance of hospitalization for catheterized fenestration closure to introduce goals of study and review risks and benefits of participation. At the time of catheterization, the study objectives and consent forms will be explained, allowing sufficient time for questions. To ensure full comprehension of the study, the parent or guardian will be asked to describe his or her participation in the trial. Using the Fibroscan (Echosens, Paris, France), a transient elastography device, a liver stiffness measurement (LSM) will be obtained prior to the catheterization. On the post-catheterization day, a repeat measurement will be obtained. Transient elastography will be performed by trained study investigators who were certified by the manufacturer. To obtain an LSM, the appropriate-sized Fibroscan probe must be selected and then aimed in the right upper quadrant space through an intercostal space. For patients with heterotaxy or situs inversus, adjustments in probe positioning may be needed to obtain reliable measurement. Probe selection (small, medium, or large) will be directed by manufacturer guidelines, based on thoracic perimeter. The operator is guided by an image to locate an appropriate section of liver. The Fibroscan device transmits an elastic shear wave through the hepatic parenchyma and then measures the propagation of the wave through a known distance of liver tissue to calculate a transmission velocity. Using the shear velocity and the mass density of the liver parenchyma, the principles of Young's modulus are invoked to estimate the Elasticity of the tissue. The elasticity is summarized as a liver stiffness measurement (LSM), which is a continuous variable that is reported in kilopascals (kPa). Each LSM outcome value is based on a minimum of ten valid assessments measured in succession. The validity of each individual measurement is determined by the device and the interquartile range of the measurements should fall within 30% of the median LSM. The Fibroscan data collection method is non-invasive and efficient. LSM will be obtained after fasting for a minimum of three hours and without administration of sedating agents/anesthetics.