Pulmonary Hypertension and Atrial Septal Defect: Management Dilemma

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous return: A case series with management approach

Partial anomalous pulmonary venous return (PAPVR) is a rare congenital anomaly that results in a left-to-right shunt. Based on the shunt fraction, PAPVR has a wide spectrum of presentations. If a significant left-to-right shunt is left unrepaired, pulmonary vascular remodeling can occur resulting in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Furthermore, if the condition is associated with an atrial septal defect (ASD), the patient can develop shunt reversal and Eisenmenger's syndrome in setting of severe PAH. Management plans include close observation, surgical repair, and treatment with pulmonary artery vasodilator therapies. Here, we present multiple cases of PAPVR to highlight the wide spectrum of presentations and the individualized treatment for each case.

Atrial septal defect (ASD) device trans-catheter closure: limitations

Transcatheter closure is a widespread technique used to treat secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs). When compared to surgery, it provides a less invasive approach with quicker recovery and reduced physical and psychological impact. Nowadays, almost 85-90% of all secundum ASD can be closed by using a transcatheter approach. However, several limitations may have a significant impact on the feasibility and success of percutaneous ASD closure. Limitations can be grouped as: (I) anatomical; (II) device-related; (III) associated defects and natural history associated issues; (IV) physiological; (V) complications. Physician should be aware of potential limits of percutaneous ASD closure.