Can a common diuretic protect the liver and heart in children born with one heart chamber?

NCT ID NCT04901975

First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026

Summary

This trial investigates how the Fontan surgery, which reroutes blood flow in children born with a single heart ventricle, affects the liver and heart. Researchers use MRI scans and blood tests to measure fibrosis (scarring) and lymphatic congestion. They also test whether spironolactone, a mild diuretic, can prevent or reduce this damage. The study includes children aged 1 to 6 years scheduled for Fontan surgery at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

Spironolactone

What this could lead to

If spironolactone reduces fibrosis, it could help prevent liver and heart damage in children with single-ventricle heart conditions.

What could go wrong

This is an early-phase trial with a small number of participants. Spironolactone may not reduce fibrosis, and side effects like electrolyte imbalances are possible.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

univentricular heart

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Children's Hospital of Philadelphia

    Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19130, United States