Prevalence and risk factors for low bone density in adults with a Fontan circulation

OBJECTIVE AND PATIENTS This study aimed to characterize bone mineral density abnormalities and pathophysiological associations in young adults living with a Fontan circulation. DESIGN Participants underwent bone mineral density measurement using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry and serum biochemical analysis, cardiopulmonary exercise and strength testing and transthoracic echocardiography. RESULTS In our cohort (n = 28), 29% had osteopenic-range bone mineral density and one patient was osteoporotic (average hip t score: -0.6 ± 1.1; spine t score: -0.6 ± 0.9). Four patients (14%) had z scores