Transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defect using an Amplatzer septal occluder.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the Amplatzer septal occluder for transcatheter closure in patients with secundum atrial septal defect (ASD II).

METHODS: Patients with clinically confirmed ASD II were recommended for transcatheter closure of ASD II.

RESULTS: 30 ASD II patients (20 females) underwent transcatheter closure at a median age of 18.4 years (5-55 years). Both the stretched diameters of ASDs and the sizes of the devices were from 18 to 34 mm (25 +/- 7 mm). The successful placement rate was 100%. The rest shunt documented by color Doppler, was immediately after implantation in 40% of patients, in 9.9% after 24 hours, and in 3.3% trace at 3 months. No serious complications were observed. There was improvement in symptoms and in cardiac size. Septal motion abnormalities normalized in all patients after 3 months follow-up.

CONCLUSION: The Amplatzer septal occluder is a safe and effective device for transcatheter closure of ASD II. Long-term follow-up is still required before widespread clinical use can be recommended.