Outcomes and alternative techniques for device closure of the large secundum atrial septal defect

Transcatheter closure of large ostium secundum atrial septal defects in symptomatic small children: A single-center retrospective study

Background

In general, the risks associated with transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure are reported to be relatively low, but the evidence stems from trials involving adults and older children. Current guidelines do not recommend ASD device closure in children with defect sizes >20 mm due to limited data available in this group of patients. This retrospective study sought to determine the clinical and procedural characteristics of successful transcatheter ASD device closure in small children with large defects and assess the complication rates and reasons for unsuccessful device closure.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the data of all patients who underwent elective transcatheter closure of ostium secundum ASD in our department between September 2013 and February 2022. All children weighing <20 kg, requiring a device of size 20 mm or greater, were included. Major and minor complications were predefined and indications for referral were evaluated. Echocardiogram reports were reviewed from the time of referral, postcatheterization day 1, and at 1-year follow-up.

Results

We identified 40 patients meeting inclusion criteria with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) procedural age of 5 (4-7) years and median (IQR) weight of 14 (12-18) kg. Successful device closure was achieved in 39 patients with a success rate of 97.5%. The total complication rate was 2.5% (95% confidence interval: 0.44%- I2.8%) with only 1 major complication. All children had right heart enlargement and exertional dyspnea, 30% of patients had recurrent lower respiratory tract infections, and 10% had failure to thrive. At 1-year follow-up, a transthoracic echocardiogram showed a well-endothelialized device in a stable position in all the patients, and none of the patients had a residual shunt.

Conclusion

In experienced centers, percutaneous ASD closure of large defects in symptomatic small children can be done effectively and safely with a great degree of predictability and a low complication rate.

FAST technique: fast atrial sheath traction technique for device closure of atrial septal defects

Background

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) is well-established. However, this procedure can be challenging, requiring multiple attempts and advanced implantation maneuvers.

Materials and methods

From July 2019 to July 2022, patients to whom the fast atrial sheath traction (FAST) technique was applied for ASD device closure were prospectively followed up. The device was rapidly unsheathed in the middle of the left atrium (LA) to let it clamp the ASD from both sides simultaneously. This novel technique was directly applied in patients with absent aortic rims and/or ASD size-to-body weight ratio higher than 0.9 or after failed attempts of standard implantation.

Results

Seventeen patients (64.7% males) were involved with a median age of 9.8 years [interquartile range (IQR), 7.6-15.1] and a median weight of 34 kg (IQR, 22-44). The median ASD size on ultrasound was 19 mm (IQR, 16-22). Five (29.4%) patients had absent aortic rims, and three (17.6%) patients had an ASD size-to-body weight ratio higher than 0.9. The median device size was 22 mm (IQR, 17-24). The median difference between device size and ASD two-dimensional static diameter was 3 mm (IQR, 1-3). All interventions were straightforward without any complications using three different occluder devices. One device was removed before release and upsized to the next size. The median fluoroscopy time was 4.1 min (IQR, 3.6-4.6). All patients were discharged the next postoperative day. On a median follow-up of 13 months (IQR, 8-13), no complications were detected. All patients achieved full clinical recovery with complete shunt closure.

Conclusion

We present a new implantation technique to efficiently close simple and complex ASDs. The FAST technique can be of benefit in overcoming left disc malalignment to the septum in defects with absent aortic rims and in avoiding complex implantation maneuvers and the risks of injuring the pulmonary veins.

Outcomes in Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Underwent Transcatheter Closure of an Atrial Septal Defect

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) related to an atrial septal defect (ASD) poses a challenge to transcatheter closure of an ASD (tcASD). We aimed to determine the predictors for remaining PAH (rPAH) post-tcASD. This retrospective study was conducted at a single tertiary university hospital. Adult patients with an ASD and PAH were divided into three groups according to pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR). Normalization of pulmonary atrial systolic pressure (PASP) was defined as an estimated right ventricular systolic pressure < 40 mmHg and was determined using transthoracic echocardiography. Among 119 patients, 80% showed PAH normalization post-tcASD. Normalization of PAH post-tcASD was observed in 100%, 56.2%, and 28.6% of patients in mild, moderate, and severe PVR groups, respectively. The patients’ New York Heart Association functional class improved. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age and high PVR were significant risk factors for rPAH. A receiving operator curve analysis showed a PASP cutoff value > 67.5 mmHg to be predictive of rPAH post-tcASD, with an area under the curve value of 0.944 (sensitivity, 0.922; specificity 0.933). Most patients, including moderate-to-severe PAH patients, improved hemodynamically and clinically with tcASD. Since patients with severe PAH are at a risk of rPAH, tcASD should be performed by selecting the patient carefully based on pre-procedure medication, a vasoreactivity test, and a balloon occlusion test.

Mid-term follow-up by speckle tracking and cardiac MRI of children post-transcatheter closure of large atrial septal defects

This is a case-control study of our experience of mid-term follow-up of 40 children who had a transcatheter closure of very large atrial septal defects group (1). All cases had an atrial septal defect device size more than 1.5 times their weight, a ratio considered a contraindication for trans catheter closure (TCC) in some previous reports. The aim of this study is to report the outcomes and mid-term follow-up of transcatheter closure of large atrial septal defects using two-dimensional conventional echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging, and four-dimensional speckle tracking imaging, and as such to compare results of same echocardiographic examination of age-matched control group of 40 healthy children group (2). Cardiac MRI was performed on cases group (1) only to detect right ventricle and left ventricle volumes and function and early signs of complications. There was no difference between cases and matched healthy controls in terms of the assessment of left ventricle and right ventricle by two-dimensional echocardiography, tissue Doppler imaging, and four-dimensional speckle tracking imaging. Similarly, there was no statistically significant difference between four-dimensional echocardiography and cardiac MRI in their respective assessment of both left ventricle and right ventricle volumes and function. We also detected no complications by echo or by cardiac MRI after a median follow-up period of 2 years and recorded a complete remodelling of right ventricle volumes in all children studied. This points to the safety and efficiency of transcatheter closure of large atrial septal defects in children on mid-term follow-up.

Canadian Cardiovascular Society 2022 Guidelines for Cardiovascular Interventions in Adults With Congenital Heart Disease

Interventions in adults with congenital heart disease (ACHD) focus on surgical and percutaneous interventions in light of rapidly evolving ACHD clinical practice. To bring rigour to our process and amplify the cumulative nature of evidence ACHD care we used the ADAPTE process; we systematically adjudicated, updated, and adapted existing guidelines by Canadian, American, and European cardiac societies from 2010 to 2020. We applied this to interventions related to right and left ventricular outflow obstruction, tetralogy of Fallot, coarctation, aortopathy associated with bicuspid aortic valve, atrioventricular canal defects, Ebstein anomaly, complete and congenitally corrected transposition, and patients with the Fontan operation. In addition to tables indexed to evidence, clinical flow diagrams are included for each lesion to facilitate a practical approach to clinical decision-making. Excluded are recommendations for pacemakers, defibrillators, and arrhythmia-directed interventions covered in separate designated documents. Similarly, where overlap occurs with other guidelines for valvular interventions, reference is made to parallel publications. There is a paucity of high-level quality of evidence in the form of randomized clinical trials to support guidelines in ACHD. We accounted for this in the wording of the strength of recommendations put forth by our national and international experts. As data grow on long-term follow-up, we expect that the evidence driving clinical practice will become increasingly granular. These recommendations are meant to be used to guide dialogue between clinicians, interventional cardiologists, surgeons, and patients making complex decisions relative to ACHD interventions.

Role of Echocardiography in the Diagnosis and Interventional Management of Atrial Septal Defects

This review centers on the usefulness of echo-Doppler studies in the diagnosis of ostium secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs) and in their management, both in children and adults. Transthoracic echocardiography can easily identify the secundum ASDs and also differentiate secundum ASDs from other kinds of ASDs, such as ostium primum ASD, sinus venosus ASD and coronary sinus ASD, as well as patent foramen ovale. Preliminary selection of patients for device occlusion can be made by transthoracic echocardiograms while final selection is based on transesophageal (TEE) or intracardiac (ICE) echocardiographic studies with optional balloon sizing of ASDs. TEE and ICE are extremely valuable in guiding device implantation and in evaluating the position of the device following its implantation. Echo-Doppler evaluation during follow-up is also useful in documenting improvements in ventricular size and function, in assessing the device position, in detecting residual shunts, and in identifying rare device-related complications. Examples of echo images under each section are presented. The reasons why echo-Doppler is very valuable in diagnosing and managing ASDs are extensively discussed.

Transcatheter Closure of Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects: JACC Focus Seminar

The field of congenital interventional cardiology has experienced tremendous growth in recent years. Beginning with the development of early devices for transcatheter closure of septal defects in the 1970s and 1980s, such technologies have evolved to become a mainstay of treatment for many atrial septal defects (ASDs) and ventricular septal defects (VSDs). Percutaneous device closure is now the preferred approach for the majority of secundum ASDs. It is also a viable treatment option for selected VSDs, though limitations still exist. In this review, the authors describe the current state of transcatheter closure of ASDs and VSDs in children and adults, including patient selection, procedural approach, and outcomes. Potential areas for future evolution and innovation are also discussed.

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect with deficient posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim under echocardiography only: a feasibility and safety analysis

BACKGROUND

The safe closure of atrial septal defect with deficient posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim is a controversial issue. Few studies have been conducted on the closure of atrial septal defect with deficient posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim without fluoroscopy. This study evaluated the feasibility and safety of echocardiography-guided transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect with deficient posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim.

METHODS

The data of 136 patients who underwent transcatheter atrial septal defect closure without fluoroscopy from March 2017 to March 2020 were retrospectively analysed. The patients were classified into the deficient (n = 45) and sufficient (n = 91) posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim groups. Procedure and the follow-up results were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Atrial septal defect indexed diameter and the device indexed diameter in the deficient rim group were both larger than that in the sufficient rim group (22.12 versus 17.38 mm/m2, p < 0.001; 24.77 versus 21.21 mm/m2, p = 0.003, respectively). There was no significant difference in the success rate of occlusion between two groups (97.78% in the deficient rim group versus 98.90% in the sufficient rim group, p = 1.000). During follow-up, the incidence of severe adverse cardiac events was not statistically significant (p = 0.551).

CONCLUSIONS

Atrial septal defect with deficient posterior-inferior or inferior vena cava rim can safely undergo transcatheter closure under echocardiography alone if precisely evaluated with transesophageal or transthoracic echocardiography and the size of the occluder is appropriate. The mid-term results after closure are similar to that for an atrial septal defect with sufficient rim.

Practical Therapeutic Management of Percutaneous Atrial Septal Defect Closure

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) are one of the most common congenital heart disorders encountered by cardiologists. Percutaneous ASD closure for secundum ASD is commonly performed not only for children but also for adults, given its non-inferiority to surgical repair. The choice of closure technique should be based on assessing a patient's baseline comorbidities, including the presence of pulmonary hypertension, supraventricular tachycardias, and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction. Furthermore, anatomical features and defect types determined using echocardiography need to be considered when developing a management plan. Percutaneous closure is often the preferred method, given its comparable successful rate to surgical repair while also being far less invasive.

GORE® Cardioform ASD Occluder experience in transcatheter closure of "complex" atrial septal defects

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the GORE® Cardioform ASD Occluder (GCO) (WL Gore & Associates, Flagstaff, AZ) device for "complex" atrial septal defects (ASD) closure.

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter ASD closure is still challenging in "complex" clinical/anatomic settings. This study evaluated the results of GCO in closure of "complex" ASD in a tertiary referral center.

METHODS

Between January 2020 and March 2021, 72 patients with significant ASD were submitted to transcatheter closure with GCO at our Institution. Based on clinical/anatomic characteristics, they were classified as "complex" (n = 36, Group I) or "simple" (n = 36, Group II). We considered as "complex", defects with rim deficiency (< 5 mm) other than antero-superior, relatively large (diameter/patient weight > 1.2 or diameter/patient BSA > 20 mm/m² ) or within a multifenestrated septum. Procedure results and early outcome were compared between the groups.

RESULTS

Absolute and relative ASD size (20 ± 4 vs. 15 ± 3 mm, p < 0.0001; 0.9 ± 0.3 vs. 0.4 ± 0.2 mm/kg, p < 0.0001; 23 ± 7 vs. 12 ± 5 mm/m² , p < 0.0001), QP/QS (2.0 ± 0.8 vs. 1.4 ± 0.3, p < 0.001), procedure and fluoroscopy times (73 ± 36 vs. 43 ± 21 min, p < 0.0001; 16 ± 9 vs. 9 ± 4 min, p < 0.0001, procedure feasibility (94.4 vs. 100%, p < 0.0001) and overall complication rate (13.9 vs. 0%, p < 0.0001) were significantly different between the groups. Successful closure of "surgical" ASDs was achieved in 92% of cases. Complete closure at last follow-up evaluation did not significantly differ between the groups (97.1 vs. 100%, p = NS), as was wireframe fractures rate (49.1% in the overall population), without clinical, EKG and echocardiographic consequences.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous treatment with GCO device is effective and safe in high percentage of "complex" ASDs.

Catheter-based closure of a large atrial septal defect with inferior rim deficiency using pulmonary vein slide-out assisted implantation technique: a case report

Background

Transcatheter approach for large and complex atrial septal defects may represent a therapeutic challenge, particularly when the postero-inferior rim is deficient and floppy.

Case summary

Here, we describe a successful catheter-based closure of a large (>30 mm) secundum atrial septal defect associated with postero-inferior rim deficiency in a 35-year-old female with congestive heart failure using pulmonary vein slide-out assisted implantation technique.

Discussion

Inferior–posterior rim deficiency is a well-known risk factor for device instability or embolization. Transcatheter closure may represent a safe and effective alternative to the traditional surgical approach provided that modified implantation techniques are employed.

International experience with the use of Cocoon septal occluder for closure of atrial septal defects

BACKGROUND

The Cocoon septal occluder (CSO) is a new generation double disk occluder device for catheter closure of the secundum atrial septal defect (ASD). Initial clinical evaluations with the use of this device have shown quite satisfactory results but large follow-up studies are missing. In this international multicenter study, we present procedural and follow-up data from 4008 patients with secundum ASD who underwent catheter closure with the use of CSO.

METHODS

The study cohort consisted of 1853 pediatric and 2155 adult patients with secundum ASD treated with the CSO. Patients were enrolled retrospectively from 11 international centers and were followed for a mean period of 43 months (range 12-84 months), postprocedural. Clinical, electrocardiographic, echocardiographic, procedural, and follow-up data were collected from each collaborating hospital.

RESULTS

The CSO was permanently implanted in 3983 patients (99.4%). Echocardiographic evaluation at one month follow-up revealed complete closure in 99.6% of those patients who had a device implanted. Thrombus formation in one adult patient was the only major device related to procedural complication. During the follow-up period, no patient developed cardiac erosions, allergic reactions to nickel, or other major complications.

CONCLUSIONS

Implantation of CSO provided satisfactory procedural and follow-up results with high success and no device-related cardiac erosions and nickel allergy.

Morphological assessments of deficient posterior-inferior rim for transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to determine morphological characteristics of deficient posterior-inferior rim for transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) closure success.

BACKGROUND

The feasibility of transcatheter closure of ASD with deficient posterior-inferior rim remains unclear.

METHODS

Of 869 patients with ASD who were scheduled transcatheter closure, 121 with posterior-inferior rim of <5 mm were included. Posterior-inferior rim morphologies were evaluated by transesophageal echocardiography.

RESULTS

One hundred six patients successfully underwent transcatheter closure, while 15 patients failed. These 15 patients had complete deficient posterior-inferior rim of 0 mm and/or a large defect of ≥38 mm. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that transcatheter closure failure was independently related to complete deficient posterior-inferior rim and a large defect of ≥38 mm. Incomplete deficient posterior-inferior rim of >0 to <5 mm was observed in 84 patients. All these patients successfully underwent transcatheter closure, except two patients with a large defect of ≥38 mm. Complete deficient posterior-inferior rim was observed in 37 patients. The frequency of complete deficient posterior-inferior rim was higher in patients who failed transcatheter closure (87% vs. 23%, p < .01), but transcatheter closure was performed successfully if the range of complete deficient rim was ≤30°. After the procedure, no adverse events occurred during a median follow-up of 24 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients with deficient posterior-inferior rim successfully underwent transcatheter closure. Transcatheter closure could be performed even in patients with complete deficient posterior-inferior rim if the range was partial. Our findings can help to identify candidates for transcatheter closure.

Prevalence and outcomes of pulmonary hypertension after percutaneous closure of atrial septal defect: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common form of congenital heart disease. Significant shunts may increase the risk of developing pulmonary hypertension (PH). We aimed to describe current PH definitions, evaluate PH prevalence and the effect of PH on outcomes in patients undergoing percutaneous ASD closure.

METHODS

EMBASE, MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were systematically searched. Studies reporting PH prevalence or mean systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (sPAP) before and after percutaneous ASD closure in adults were included. We conducted meta-analyses to obtain summary estimates for PH prevalence and mean sPAP.

RESULTS

15 articles with a total of 1073 patients met the eligibility criteria. Studies applied variable PH definitions. PH prevalence and mean sPAP levels decreased in all studies after closure. The pooled PH prevalence decreased from 44% (95% CI 29-60%) to 18% (95% CI 8-27%). The overall standardised mean difference in sPAP was 1.12 (95% CI 0.81-1.44) and 1.62 (95% CI 1.00-2.23) in cohort and case-series studies respectively indicating a large decrease. The pooled standard mean difference among the younger and older patients were different, 1.25 (95% CI 0.78-1.71) and 0.91 (95% CI 0.56-1.27), respectively. A high degree of between-study heterogeneity was noted.

CONCLUSIONS

Both PH prevalence and mean sPAP decrease after ASD closure. Larger, prospective studies with consistent PH definitions using the recommended measurement modality are warranted.

Transcatheter Interventions in Adult Congenital Heart Disease

This article provides a detailed review of the current practices and future directions of transcatheter interventions in adults with congenital heart disease. This includes indications for intervention, risks, and potential complications, as well as a review of available devices and their performance.

Left ventricular rotational deformation changes by speckle tracking imaging before and 24 hours after transcatheter closure of large secundum atrial septal defects in children

BACKGROUND

Large atrial septal defects (ASDs) in children cause increased volume overload of the right side of the heart which in turn lead to impairment of left ventricular (LV) performance.

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate immediate LV rotational deformation changes in children with large ASDs post-device closure and removal of right ventricle (RV) volume overload.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Twenty children who underwent transcatheter closure (TCC) of large secundum ASDs were included in the study. LV rotational deformation was assessed pre- and 24 hours post-device closure using speckle tracking imaging (STI).

RESULTS

55% were females with mean age 6.1 ± 3.5 years. LV peak basal clockwise rotation improved significantly (-6.9 ± 2.6° before vs -10.3 ± 4.1° after TCC, P = .005), and time to peak clockwise rotation (345.1 ± 124.7 milliseconds (ms) before vs 282.2 ± 82.9 ms after closure, P = .02). There was no significant difference in apical rotational parameters including peak counterclockwise rotation (P > .05 for both). LV twist (11.3 ± 3.8° before vs 17.5 ± 7.1° after closure, P = .001) and torsion (2.1 ± 0.7°/cm before vs 3.1 ± 1.2°/cm after closure, P = .01) were significantly improved, mainly as the result of improvement of LV basal rotation. LV revealed a significant increase in LV end-diastolic volumes (P = .02) 24 hour after TCC with no significant change (P > .05) in end-systolic volumes after closure.

CONCLUSION

Increased peak LV twisting and torsion were attributed to the improved peak systolic clockwise basal rotation after TCC of large ASDs in children.

Elaborate evaluation of serial changes in electrocardiograms of atrial septal defects after transcatheter closure for a better understanding of the recovery process

Serial changes of electrocardiograms (ECG) could be used to assess their clinical features in atrial septal defects (ASD) after transcatheter closure together with other clinical parameters. We retrospectively studied 100 ASD patients who underwent transcatheter closure. Complications of persistent atrial fibrillation occurred in five ASD patients, and they were excluded. We divided the other 95 patients according to PQ intervals before closure (normal: < 200 ms, n = 51; prolonged: ≥ 200 ms, n = 44) to evaluate their clinical characteristics and parameters such as echocardiography, chest X-rays, and brain natriuretic protein (BNP) levels. Individuals in the prolonged PQ group were significantly older, had higher incidences of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and heart failure (HF) treated with more β-blockers and diuretics, and with a higher tendency of NYHA functional classification and BNP levels than the normal PQ group. The prolonged PQ group also had a significantly higher incidence of complete right bundle branch block, wider QRS intervals, and larger cardiothoracic ratios in chest X-rays accompanied by larger right atrial-areas and larger left atrial dimensions in echocardiograms. Furthermore, the prolonged PQ intervals with less PQ interval shortening after transcatheter closure revealed that the patients were the oldest at the time of closures and showed less structural normalization of the right heart and left atrium after ASD closure. PAF and HF also occurred more frequently in this subgroup. These results suggested that the ASD patients with prolonged PQ intervals with less PQ shortening were accompanied by more advanced clinical conditions. Together with other clinical parameters, detailed analyses of ECG and their changes after closure could elucidate the clinical characteristics and status of ASD patients with transcatheter closure and were useful for predicting structural normalization after transcatheter closure.

Diagnosis and treatment of adults with congenital heart disease

Approximately 50 million adults worldwide have known congenital heart disease (CHD). Among the most common types of CHD defects in adults are atrial septal defects and ventricular septal defects followed by complex congenital heart lesions such as tetralogy of Fallot. Adults with CHDs are more likely to have hypertension, cerebral vascular disease, diabetes and chronic kidney disease than age-matched controls without CHD. Moreover, by the age of 50, adults with CHD are at a greater than 10% risk of experiencing cardiac dysrhythmias and approximately 4% experience sudden death. Consequently, adults with CHD require healthcare that is two- to four-times greater than adults without CHD. This paper discusses the diagnosis and treatment of adults with atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects and tetralogy of Fallot.

Long-Term Follow-Up of Transthoracic Echocardiography-Guided Transcatheter Closure of Large Atrial Septal Defects (≥ 30 mm) Using the SHSMA Occluder

Transcatheter closure of large atrial septal defects (ASDs) remains controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and safety of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE)-guided transcatheter closure of large ASDs. Patients with large secundum ASDs (≥ 30 mm) who underwent device closure were retrospectively reviewed. TTE was performed to guide ASD occluder positioning and assess the immediate and long-term outcomes. A total of 60 patients (median age 43.5 years, range 15-78 years) were enrolled in the study. The median ASD size was 35 mm (range 30-42 mm). Mild to moderate pulmonary hypertension was observed in 36 patients (60%). Thirty-one patients (51.7%) had one short rim, and 18 patients (30.0%) had two deficient rims. Placement of the device was successful in 57 patients (95%), and the median device size was 42 mm (range 40-50 mm). Dislodgement of the device occurred in three patients with two deficient rims: a larger device was redeployed in one case, and two patients required surgical repair. During a median follow-up of 37 months (range 6-83 months), no residual shunts, erosion, or embolization were noted, and pulmonary hypertension resolved in 75% of the patients. Thus t vast majority (95%) of large ASDs can be successfully closed percutaneously using the Chinese-made Shanghai Shape Memory Alloy (SHSMA) occluder under TTE guidance. Long-term follow-up showed that transcatheter closure could become a safe and effective alternative to surgery in select large ASDs.

Procedural, Early and Long-term Outcomes after Percutaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defect: Comparison between Large and Very Large Atrial Septal Defect Groups

Background

This study aimed to compare procedural, early and long-term outcome of device closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) between large ASD patients and very large ASD patients.

Methods

We carried a retrospective study of adult large ASD (defined as ≥25 mm) treated by percutaneous closure using Amplatzer septal occluder during 12-year period (May 2003–February 2015) at a single tertiary center. A total of 269 patients were divided into 2 groups, according to the pre-procedural maximal ASD diameter; 25 mm≤ASD<35mm, group 1 (n=216) and 35 mm≤ASD, group 2 (n=53). We compared procedural parameters, early complications and long-term follow-up results between 2 groups.

Results

The need of modified implantation techniques (MITs) was higher group 2 (23.6% vs. 37.7%, p=0.034). Procedural success rate was considerably high in both groups (99.1% in group 1 vs. 100% in group 2, p=0.620). Major complications were occurred in 4 (1.5%) patients (1.4% vs. 1.9%, p=0.804). Minor complication rate was not different between 2 groups. During long-term follow-up (47.2±32.0 months, range, 6.0–135.5), there was one major complication (0.4%) of stroke. Most common long-term minor event was migraine headache (3.9%) followed by arrhythmias (1.9%) without statistical difference between 2 groups.

Conclusions

Although MIT was more frequently required in very large ASD groups, the procedural, early and long-term outcomes after percutaneous ASD closure were similar in both groups. This suggested that percutaneous ASD closure for very large ASD could be considered a good treatment option.

Should transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects with inferior-posterior deficient rim still be attempted?

Background

Transcatheter closure for atrial septal defect (ASD) with inferior-posterior rim deficiency has been scarcely reported with proper identification of the indications and limits. We aimed to assess the safety and feasibility of transcatheter closure of ASDs with deficient rims, paying particular attention to cases with inferior-posterior rim deficiency.

Methods

From January 2008 to January 2013, 241 patients underwent transcatheter ASD closure, including 50 cases (20.7%) with deficient rims, other than the anterior-superior one. Eighteen patients (12 females) presented inferior-posterior rim deficiency. Their median age was 8 (1.4-85) years and their median weight was 24 [9-97] kg. Transcatheter closure was performed in all cases under transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) guidance in children and intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) guidance in adults.

Results

Out of 18 patients with inferior-posterior rim deficiency, only 8 underwent successful immediate transcatheter closure. Four cases failed to be closed. Major complications occurred in 6 patients, including 4 device embolizations, 1 pericardial effusion and 1 complete atrioventricular block that resolved after surgical removal of the device. During a median follow up of 54±13 months, a residual right-to-left shunt was documented in 2 more cases, requiring surgery in one case because of cyanosis. Transcatheter closure was successfully performed in the rest of the 223 patients, including in the 32 cases with deficient rims other than inferior-posterior.

Conclusions

Transcatheter closure of ASDs with inferior-posterior rim deficiency cannot be recommended.

Feasibility, safety and midterm follow-up of patients after nonsurgical closure of atrial septal defects using very large 40-46 mm nitinol septal occluders

OBJECTIVES

To study the feasibility of closure of large atrial septal defects (ASDs) using occluder devices >38 mm and assess the midterm complications.

BACKGROUND

Feasibility and safety of large occluders >38 mm and their follow-up are largely unknown.

METHODS

All patients with ASDs closed using devices >38 mm were retrospectively analyzed. Since outcome of patients receiving 40 mm devices were known before, patients receiving 40 mm devices were compared with those receiving 42-46 mm devices on demographic, hemodynamic parameters and procedural characteristics.

RESULTS

A total of 17 patients with 40-mm device and 31 patients with >40-mm device formed the cohort. The mean echocardiographic defect size was 36.3 ± 3.7 mm. In total 19 patients had deficient retroaortic margin; inferior margin was deficient in one. Larger defects needed special deployment techniques more often. There was acute technical success in all patients. Two procedures failed; one device embolization next day in a patient with deficient inferior margin needed surgery. Another elderly patient with restrictive left ventricular physiology died of multiorgan dysfunction. Two late deaths on follow-up were unrelated to the procedure. All other patients had symptom improvement. There were no erosions, thromboembolism or valvar regurgitation at a median follow-up of 39 (1-60) months. Apart from late-onset atrial flutter in one, there were no arrhythmias on follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Occluders larger than 38 mm in appropriately selected patients are feasible, successful and safe in majority and often require special deployment techniques. Complications during and after the procedure were infrequent. Very large defects with any deficient margin except retroaortic rim should be excluded from device closure.

Impact of modified techniques of transcatheter closure in large atrial septal defects (⩾30 mm) with anatomic complexities

OBJECTIVE

The outcome of transcatheter closure in ostium secundum atrial septal defects is determined by the morphology of the defects. Modified techniques such as balloon assistance, pulmonary vein deployment, left atrial roof technique, and so on are used for circumventing the anatomic complexities and increasing the success rates.

METHODS

We planned a prospective study looking at the outcomes of transcatheter closure in secundum atrial septal defects with modified techniques in different anatomic complexities identified in transoesophageal echocardiography and their association with outcome of transcatheter closure.

RESULTS

Transcatheter closure was successful in 295 out of 346 (82%) patients with modified techniques. Balloon-assisted technique offered a success rate of 87%. The mean defect size was 34.7±2.78 mm (95% confidence interval (CI) 30.67-43.1 mm) with success and 40.16±4.5 mm (95% CI 32.16-44.7) with failure (p = 0.02). The mean total septal length was 38.11±0.63 (95% CI 35.21-40.56 mm) with success and 42.54±0.34 (95% CI 38.79-43.21 mm) with failure. The defect to septal ratios were 0.82 and 0.94 in success and failure groups, respectively (p=0.02). However, the absence of a retro-aortic margin, septal aneurysm, and multiple defects did not affect the success rate. Deficient inferior vena caval margin, deficient posterior margin, and size⩾40 mm had a high risk of failure with transcatheter closure. The odds ratio for procedural failure was 25.3 (4.3-143.8) in patients with malaligned septum, 8.3(1.4-48.5) with deficient inferior vena caval margin, and 4.1(2.5-19) for size⩾40 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

The modified techniques for device deployment offer substantial chances of success in transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defects with anatomical complexity (82%). Variants such as defect size of⩾40 mm and deficient inferior and posterior margins have high failure rates with a modified technique.

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defect: principles and available devices

There has been a remarkable improvement in the treatment strategy of secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) over the last few decades. Indebted to the improvement in device technology and procedural techniques, transcatheter closure of ASD is currently accepted as the treatment of choice in most patients with secundum ASD. Recent generation devices enable easy and safe deployment of device with the properties of adequate flexibility, re-capturability and repositioning. Use of biocompatible materials with improved device design and refined equipment finish may promote re-endothelialization and reduce potential damage to nearby structures. Most of currently available devices show excellent efficacy and comparable outcome with its own advantages and disadvantages. In addition to improvement of device properties and performance, there has been distinct improvement in procedural technique from numerous experiences of device closure of ASD. Nowadays there are well established principles regarding patient selection, pre-procedural evaluation, step-by-step details of procedure as well as post-procedural follow-up. However, an operator may encounter pitfalls in closing complex lesions such as large defect, rim deficiencies and multiple defects, so every operator has to be familiar with each available device, general principle as well as special issues for complex lesions.

Tough, but not impossible - Retrieval of large atrial septal occluder devices embolized to left atrium

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect that is being increasingly treated using percutaneous interventions. However, these techniques are not devoid of complications. One such complication is device embolization. Removal of such closure device poses tremendous risk and consequent complications both by percutaneous retrieval and surgical removal. Herein, we present two cases of ASDs that were closed using atrial septal occluder, but the devices were subsequently embolized into left atrium. These devices were then percutaneously retrieved without any further complication or injury.

Transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defects: has fear of device erosion altered outcomes?

BACKGROUND

Transcatheter device closure has become the established standard of care for suitable atrial septal defects. Device erosion has been a recent focus and has prompted changes in the Instructions for Users documentation released by device companies. We reviewed our entire local experience with atrial septal defect device closure, focussing on the evolution of this procedure in our centre and particularly on complications.

METHODS

We carried out a retrospective review of 581 consecutive patients undergoing attempted transcatheter device closure of an atrial septal defect in Auckland from December 1997 to June 2014. We reviewed all complications recorded and compared our outcomes with the current literature. We sought to understand the impact of the evolution in recommendations and clinical practice on patient outcomes in our programme.

RESULTS

There were a total of 24 complications (4.1%), including 10 device embolisations (1.7%), nine arrhythmias (1.5%), two significant vascular access-related complications (0.3%), one device erosion (0.2%), one malposed device (0.2%), and one probable wire perforation of the left atrial appendage (0.2%). There was one mortality related to device embolisation. All device embolisations occurred following the change in Instructions for Users after publication of the first device erosion report in 2004. This increase in embolisation rate was statistically significant (p-value 0.015).

CONCLUSIONS

In our series, the incidence of device embolisation was higher than that anticipated, with a significant increase following changes to the Instructions for Users. This highlights the need for ongoing data collection on complication incidence and for ongoing review of the impact of changes in clinical practice on complication rates.

Transcatheter closure of large atrial septal defects using 40 mm amplatzer septal occluder: Single group experience with short and intermediate term follow-up

OBJECTIVES

To assess feasibility, safety, and efficacy of the use of 40 mm Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO 40) for the closure of large atrial septal defects (ASD).

BACKGROUND

There is very little data available on closure of large ASDs with ASO 40.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Case records of patients who underwent ASD closure with ASO 40 between 2002 and 2014 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients had clinical, transthoracic, and transesophageal echocardiographic (TEE) evaluation prior to device closure. Postclosure follow-up was done at 6 weeks, 6 months, and annually thereafter.

RESULTS

87 patients underwent ASD closure using ASO 40 during the study period. Mean age and weight of the group was 32.4 ± 11.6 years and 59.5 ± 11.3 kg respectively. Mean ASD diameter on TEE was 32 ± 2.8 mm. The balloon stretched diameter (N = 40) was 37.8 ± 1.3 mm. The balloon assisted technique was used in 80/87 patients for device deployment. The procedure was successful in 84/87 patients. Follow-up was available in 77 patients over a period of 44 ± 15.7 months. 3/77 patients had a small residual shunt. The severity of tricuspid regurgitation decreased in 40/77 patients. The pulmonary artery systolic pressure decreased from 49.7 ± 9.2 to 41.2 ± 6.2 mm Hg (N = 61; P < 0.05). The right ventricular diameter decreased from 35.1 ± 2.8 to 26.1 ± 3 mm (N = 77; P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

ASO 40 can be used safely and effectively with promising short and intermediate term results.© 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Intra-operative device closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defect without cardiopulmonary bypass under guidance of trans-epicardial echocardiography: a single center experience

Background

Intraoperative device closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defect(VSD) through a lower mini-sternotomy is safe, less invasive, and has excellent surgical and cosmetic outcomes. Our study is to evaluate the feasibility of closing VSD under guidance of trans-epicardial echocardiography.

Methods

We reviewed the clinical course of 41 patients referred to our institution for minimally invasive closure of perimembranous VSD. The trans-epicardial echocardiography(TEE) was used to monitor the whole procedure to guide the positioning of device and evaluate the operative effect instantly after operation.

Result

The procedure was successfully done in 38 patients(92.6 %) with mean age of 1.2 ± 1.5 years(range 0.5-6.1 years),mean weight of 10.78 ± 6.87 kg(range 5.2 ~ 26 kg) and VSD size of 5.1 ± 1.13 mm(range 5 ~ 10 mm). Three cases failed, including two cases whose guide-wires could not pass through VSDs and one case whose occluder could not repair VSD well. Three patients had tiny residual shunts because of the shifting of occluders. There were no major complications such as arrhythmia, valve regurgitation and the failure of occluder during follow-up(Mean 2.3 ± 1.2 years). TEE provided superior imaging of shapes and surrounding structures of the VSDs, and guide-wires passing through VSDs.

Conclusions

Intraoperative device closure of perimembranous VSD through a lower mini-sternotomy without cardiopulmonary bypass appears to be a safe and effective procedure. The use of trans-epicardial echocardiography provides useful information for intraoperative device closure of VSD.

Both Systemic and Pulmonary Artery Stiffness Predict Ventricular Functional Recovery after Successful Percutaneous Closure of Atrial Septal Defects in Adults

BACKGROUND

Percutaneous closure of atrial septal defect (ASD) has become the preferred method in treatment of the majority of cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the echocardiographic effects of percutaneous closure of secundum ASD in adults and assess which parameters predict good response to closure.

DESIGN

We prospectively included 42 patients with secundum ASD treated successfully with percutaneous device closure. All patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography examination with tissue Doppler imaging before, 24 hours after and within 3 months of intervention. Measurements of arterial stiffness were carried out using a Mobil-O-Graph arteriography system.

RESULTS

Remodeling of heart chambers occurred immediately and persisted at 3 months after ASD closure. Significant decreases were observed in right ventricle (RV) end-diastolic diameter, right atrium volume index, and tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion both after the procedure and at 3 months (P < .01 for all). The RV and left ventricle (LV) tissue Doppler-myocardial performance index demonstrated to decline during follow up (P = .0001). Significant correlations were found between pulse-wave velocity, augmentation index, pulmonary artery stiffness, and LV-RV tissue Doppler-myocardial performance index at third month. Linear regression analyses showed that pulse-wave velocity is the most effective parameter of LV and pulmonary artery stiffness is the most effective parameter of RV functional recovery, respectively, assessed by tissue Doppler-myocardial performance index.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous closure of secundum ASD in adults has various sustained benefits on multiple echocardiographic parameters within 3 months. The changes in RV and LV function after device closure were significantly correlated with the degree of pulmonary artery stiffness and pulse-wave velocity, respectively.

Migration of Amplatzer Septal Occluder to the Deep Aortic Arch in a Patient With Multiple Anatomic Anomalies

Atrial septal defect closure using the Amplatzer septal occluder (AGA Medical Corp, Golden Valley, MN) device is an established treatment option with excellent clinical outcome. However, several structural characteristics have been reported to be prognostic factors for failure of catheter interventional treatment. We report successful surgical removal of an Amplatzer septal occluder that had become dislocated and had migrated into the deep aortic arch. Compatible with previous reports, the patient presented with an atrial septal defect complicated by multiple anatomic deformities that were considered to be a contraindication for interventional treatment. Detailed structural assessment of the atrial septal defect is mandatory for successful treatment using the Amplatzer septal occluder.

A novel one-shot circular stapler closure for atrial septal defect in a beating-heart porcine model

PURPOSE

In surgical atrial septal defect (ASD) closure, there are no techniques or devices that can close the ASD accurately in a short time under a beating heart. We have developed a simple and automatic ASD closure technique using a circular stapler. This study assessed the feasibility and efficacy of a new circular stapler closure for ASD.

DESCRIPTION

Under a continuous beating heart, hand-sewn patch plasty ASD closure was performed in 6 pigs (group A) and circular stapler ASD closure was performed in 6 pigs (group B). The time to close the ASD and the effectiveness of the closure were compared.

EVALUATION

Closure was significantly faster in group B (10.5 ± 1.0 seconds) than in group A (664 ± 10 seconds; p < 0.05). There was no leakage at the closure site, and sufficient tolerance was confirmed.

CONCLUSIONS

A circular stapler can be used to treat ASD faster than hand-sewn patch plasty, with sufficient pressure tolerance in a beating heart porcine model.

Transcatheter Closure of Large Atrial Septal Defects

Background—

Data are needed on the safety and efficacy of device closure of large atrial septal defects.

Methods and Results—

Between 1998 and 2013, 336 patients (161 children <15 years) with large, isolated, secundum atrial septal defects (balloon-stretched diameter ≥34 mm in adults or echocardiographic diameter >15 mm/m 2 in children) were managed using the Amplatzer device, at the Marie Lannelongue Hospital. Transthoracic echocardiographic guidance was used starting in 2005 (n=219; 65.2%). Balloon-stretched diameter was >40 mm in 36 adults; mean values were 37.6±3.3 mm in other adults and 26.3±6.3 mm/m 2 in children. Amplatzer closure was successful in 311 (92.6%; 95% confidence interval, 89%–95%) patients. Superior and posterior rim deficiencies were more common in failed than in successful procedures (superior, 24.0% versus 4.8%; P =0.002; and posterior, 32.0% versus 4.2%; P <0.001). Device migration occurred in 4 adults (2 cases each of surgical and transcatheter retrieval); in the 21 remaining failures, the device was unreleased and withdrawn. After a median follow-up of 10.0 years (2.5–17 years), all patients were alive with no history of late complications.

Conclusions—

Closure of large atrial septal defects using the Amplatzer device is safe and effective in both adults and children. Superior and posterior rim deficiencies are associated with procedural failure. Closure can be performed under transthoracic echocardiographic guidance in experienced centers. Early device migration is rare and can be safely managed by device extraction. Long-term follow-up showed no deaths or major late complications in our population of 311 patients.

[Percutaneous closure of atrial septal defects with the Amplatzer® device: 15 years of experience]

INTRODUCTION

Percutaneous closure of atrial septal defects is an alternative to surgical treatment.

OBJECTIVES

We report the results of percutaneous closure of atrial septal defects with the Amplatzer(®) device.

METHOD

We include patients taken to the catheterization laboratory from September 1997 to December 2011.

RESULTS

We proceeded with defect closure in 721 patients and in 85 the defect was considered not suitable for closure. The stretched diameter of the defect was 23±6.7mm (limits, 5-42). All devices were positioned successfully. In 15 cases (2.1%) the device was changed due to instability and in 6 (0.8%) the device embolized within the first 24h, 4 were retrieved and repositioned (final success with intention to treat 719/806-89.2%). Immediate control showed complete closure in 247 patients (34.3%), leak through the device in 395 (54.9%), mild residual leak in 75 (10.4%) and moderate in 2 (0.3%). We have follow-up in 626 patients (87.1%) for 33±27.5 months, with headache in 54 (8.6%), new supraventricular arrhythmia in 10 (1.6%), puncture site complications in 4 (0.6%), and stroke in one (0.1%).

CONCLUSION

The design of the Amplatzer(®) device allows effective closure of atrial septal defects with a simple technique and patient safety.

Utility of balloon assisted technique in trans catheter closure of very large (≥35 mm) atrial septal defects

BACKGROUND

Very few published data is available on the outcomes of balloon assisted techniques (BATs) for trans catheter closure (TCC) of very large (Defined as ≥35 mm size) ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD).

OBJECTIVE

To study the utility of BAT as against conventional techniques (CT) in TCC of very large ostium secundum ASD (≥35 mm) over the past 5-year period and to find out the association of different morphological features of the defects in relation to TCC outcomes.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Descriptive single center retrospective study of patients with very large ostium secundum ASD (≥35 mm size) who were subjected to TCC.

RESULTS

Thirty-three out of 36 patients with ≥35 mm ASD and complex morphological features underwent successful TCC. The study patients had high prevalence of absent aortic and posterior rims with posterior mal-alignment of the septum. BAT was successful in 28/31 (90.3%) patients while CT had a success rate of 16%. The mean trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE) ASD size with BAT success 37 (SD 1.3) mm and CT failure 36.2 (SD 1.1) mm was not different (P=0.06). On univariate analysis of different morphological features, posterior mal alignment of the septum was associated failure of CT (P=0.01). There was no urgent referral for surgery and patients did well on follow up.

CONCLUSIONS

Balloon assisted device closure of (≥35 mm) ASD had 90% success rate. BAT helps in controlled delivery and device alignment in very large ASD with posterior malalignment of the septum and is often helpful when CT fails.

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects

Transcatheter closure of atrial septal defects has evolved significantly over the last 20 years. Transcatheter closure has replaced surgical closure for the treatment of most secundum atrial septal defectsat the current time. A major reason for this is the lower morbidity of transcatheter closure procedures. Several closure devices have come into clinical use. The Amplatzer septal occluder (AGA Medical Co.) currently has the largest reported experience and subsequently the best-established safety and efficacy features. Clinically challenging situations, such as larger atrial septal defects, atrial septal defects with deficient rims and multiple atrial septal defects, are increasingly being addressed using the transcatheter approach, with improved results. The incidence of most complications has significantly reduced over time, and serious side effects are relatively uncommon. In this review, the literature is summarized regarding the current role of transcatheter closure, the evolution of the different available devices for clinical use and the complications that occur with their use. A comparison is also made with surgical closure techniques.

Transcatheter closure of a large ASD from the femoral vein in a patient with Budd-Chiari syndrome

Anomalies of the inferior vena cava are rare in patients with isolated atrial septal defect (ASD). When present, they usually preclude successful transcatheter closure of the ASD using the femoral route. We report a case of a large secundum ASD in a 3-year-old child, who had a chronic Budd-Chiari syndrome incidentally detected on the cardiac catheterization table. We were able to successfully deploy the device from the femoral route itself using a collateral channel to reach the heart and then using the pulmonary vein deployment technique to successfully close the defect.