[Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects].
BACKGROUND
Transcatheter based device closure of secundum atrial septal defects (ASD) have been offered at our institution since September 1997. During the first three years, closure was attempted in 56 patients aged 3 to 71 years (median 15).


METHODS
Hospital notes on all patients undergoing device closure of atrial septal defects between September 1997 and September 2000 were reviewed. Indications for attempted closure were significant arteriovenous shunting (n = 49), venoarterial shunting (n = 3), and suspected paradoxical embolism (n = 4).


RESULTS
Device delivery was achieved in 51 (91%) patients. In five patients, the procedure was abandoned, owing to the unsatisfactory position of the device. In one patient, embolisation occurred within 24 hours. At three months follow-up, 44 of the 46 patients investigated had completely closed defects. Residual flow was seen in two patients, including one (with three defects) who subsequently underwent elective surgical closure. There were no other complications.


CONCLUSIONS
Device closure of ASD is a realistic alternative to surgical treatment.
Sørensen
Keld E
KE
Hjertemedicinsk afdeling B, Skejby Sygehus, Arhus Universitetshospital, DK-8200 Arhus. kes@dadlnet.dk
Kristensen
Bent Østergaard
BØ
Emmertsen
Kristian
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D006328:Cardiac Catheterization / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D006348:Cardiac Surgical Procedures / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D017548:Echocardiography, Transesophageal; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006344:Heart Septal Defects, Atrial / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008875:Middle Aged; D019736:Prostheses and Implants / Q000009:adverse effects; D016896:Treatment Outcome