UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic

For individuals in Oakland, California, and the broader Bay Area living with the complexities of a Fontan circulation due to congenital heart disease, the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic, located at 744 52nd St Fifth Floor, Oakland, CA 94609, USA, offers a highly specialized and integrated approach to their unique healthcare needs. While the platform category is "Heart Doctor Near Me," this clinic represents a vital resource that goes beyond traditional cardiology, addressing the significant intersection of cardiac and liver health in patients who have undergone the Fontan procedure. This multidisciplinary clinic is part of the renowned UCSF Health system, known for its expertise in complex medical conditions.

The environment of the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic in Oakland is likely designed to facilitate comprehensive and coordinated care. Being situated within a UCSF facility, patients can expect a professional medical setting with examination rooms equipped for both cardiac and hepatic assessments. Given the specialized nature of the clinic, it is probable that the environment fosters collaboration among different medical specialties, ensuring seamless communication and integrated treatment plans. While specific details about the clinic's ambiance are not available online, the focus would be on providing a comfortable and efficient space for patients with complex medical needs.

The primary service offered by the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic is the integrated management of cardiac and liver health in individuals who have undergone the Fontan procedure. The Fontan procedure is a complex open-heart surgery performed in patients with single ventricle heart defects to redirect blood flow from the lower body directly to the pulmonary artery. While life-saving, this altered circulation can lead to various long-term complications, including liver issues. Therefore, this specialized clinic offers a multidisciplinary approach that likely includes:

• Comprehensive Cardiac Evaluation: This would involve thorough assessments of the patient's Fontan circulation, including echocardiography, electrocardiography (ECG/EKG), cardiac catheterization when necessary, and potentially advanced cardiac imaging to monitor heart function and identify any complications.
• Hepatology Expertise: The clinic integrates hepatology specialists who are knowledgeable about the specific liver complications that can arise in Fontan patients, such as Fontan-associated liver disease (FALD), which can include fibrosis, cirrhosis, and an increased risk of liver tumors.
• Liver Function Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function through blood tests and imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI) would be a key component of the clinic's services.
• Management of Liver Complications: The clinic would provide treatment strategies for liver issues, which may include medical management, lifestyle recommendations, and coordination with liver transplant specialists if advanced liver disease develops.
• Coordination of Care: A significant feature of this clinic is the seamless coordination between cardiologists and hepatologists who specialize in the unique challenges faced by Fontan patients. This multidisciplinary approach ensures that both heart and liver health are managed holistically.
• Education and Support: The clinic likely provides patients and their families with comprehensive education about the Fontan circulation and potential liver complications, empowering them to actively participate in their care. Support services and resources may also be offered.
• Research and Innovation: As part of UCSF Health, the clinic may be involved in research to better understand and manage the long-term consequences of the Fontan procedure, potentially offering patients access to cutting-edge treatments and clinical trials.
• Transition Care (Potentially): For pediatric Fontan patients transitioning to adult care, this clinic may provide specialized expertise in managing the evolving needs of this population.

The key feature of the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic is its multidisciplinary approach, bringing together specialists in cardiology and hepatology with specific expertise in the Fontan circulation and its associated liver complications. This integrated care model is crucial for optimizing the long-term health and well-being of these complex patients. By addressing both cardiac and hepatic issues in a coordinated manner, the clinic aims to improve outcomes and quality of life.

Promotional information is not explicitly provided. However, the association with UCSF Health, a nationally recognized leader in medical care and research, serves as a strong indicator of the quality and expertise available at this clinic. For individuals with a Fontan circulation, the existence of a specialized clinic focusing on the critical link between their heart condition and potential liver issues is itself a significant benefit. To learn more about the specific services offered, the team of specialists involved, and how to become a patient, interested individuals should contact the clinic directly at (415) 353-7337.

For local users in Oakland and the surrounding areas who are Fontan patients or the caregivers of Fontan patients, the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic offers a unique and essential resource within the "Heart Doctor Near Me" category. This specialized clinic goes beyond general cardiology by providing integrated care for both the heart and liver, addressing the specific long-term health challenges associated with the Fontan procedure. The multidisciplinary team and affiliation with UCSF Health ensure access to expert medical knowledge and a comprehensive approach to managing this complex condition. If you are seeking specialized care for a Fontan circulation and related liver concerns, contacting this clinic is a crucial step in optimizing your health management.

In conclusion, the UCSF Congenital Heart Disease (Fontan) Liver Clinic in Oakland offers a vital service for individuals living with a Fontan circulation. Its multidisciplinary approach, combining expertise in cardiology and hepatology, addresses the unique healthcare needs of this patient population. While not a traditional "Heart Doctor Near Me" in the sense of general cardiology, this specialized clinic provides focused and integrated care for a critical aspect of Fontan patient management. Contacting the clinic directly is recommended to learn more about their services and how they can support the long-term health of Fontan patients.