Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect
Benjamin Zeevi, Michael Berant, Rami Fogelman, Galit Bar-Mor, Leonard Blieden
Cardiology Institute, Schneider Children's Medical Center, Petah Tikva and Sackler School of Medicine, Tel Aviv University
Isolated secundum atrial septal defect is one of the most common congenital heart defects. Surgical closure is the treatment of choice but is associated with a chest scar, some morbidity and a relatively long recovery and the use of cardiopulmonary bypass. Transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defect is therefor an attractive approach.
3 children, aged 5-10 years, underwent successful transcatheter closure of moderate to large central atrial septal defects with the Cardioseal device. The procedures were performed under x-ray and transesophageal echocardiographic guidance.
Our initial experience, and that of others, indicates that transcatheter occlusion of secundum atrial septal defects is safe and effective and can be an appropriate alternative in approximately 60% of patients.