Fitter Fontans for future—Impact of physical exercise on cardiopulmonary function in Fontan patients

BackgroundIn Fontans, exercise tolerance is poorer compared to their healthy peers. Higher V˙O2peak represents a strong predictor for mortality and morbidity in these patients. Cardiac rehabilitation programs have been shown to improve cardiopulmonary function in Fontans. More habitual physical activity should therefore lead to a better exercise tolerance.MethodsWe performed cardiopulmonary exercise testing in 24 Fontan patients who had engaged in physical activity for a minimum of 3 h per week over their lifetime. As a control we performed cardiopulmonary exercise testing in 20 Fontan patients who had undertaken no physical activity or