Fenestrated Transcatheter ASD Closure in Adults with Diastolic Dysfunction and/or Pulmonary Hypertension: Case Series and Review of the Literature

Use of Flow Restrictors in Congenital Heart Disease

The surgical pulmonary artery band was first introduced in 1952 and, to this day, can produce challenges in regard to the ideal amount of restriction and the need for reoperations. A transcatheter option may be the ideal solution as it allows for a less-invasive approach for a better hemodynamic assessment and easier re-intervention. To date, multiple approaches have been developed with device modifications to create restrictions to flow, each with advantages and limitations. Continued experience is still necessary to determine the ideal device to use to create an adequate and modifiable level of restriction.

Transcatheter Interventions in Adult Congenital Heart Disease

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common congenital birth defect with an incidence of 1 in 100. Current survival to adulthood is expected in 9 out of 10 children with severe CHD as the diagnostic, interventional, and surgical success improves. The adult CHD (ACHD) population is increasingly diverse, reflecting the broad spectrum of CHD and evolution of surgical techniques to improve survival. Similarly, transcatheter interventions have seen exponential growth and creativity to reduce the need for repeat sternotomies. This article focuses on newer data and evolving techniques for transcatheter interventions specific to certain ACHD populations.

Initial Experience With an Amplatzer Cribriform Occluder in Patients With Atrial Septal Defects in Pakistan

Background Due to their delayed onset of symptoms, atrial septal defects (ASDs) are common congenital cardiac defects that are frequently identified in adulthood. In cases of complicated ASD morphology, transcatheter closure employing devices such as the Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) presents with difficulties. While the Amplatzer cribriform occluder (ACO) has gained popularity as a specialized option, little is known about its initial use or results, especially in older patients. Objective The goal of this study was to describe the early experience with ACO in patients aged 18 to 38 years who had ASDs at a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan, with a focus on the device's efficacy, safety, and viability. Methods A total of six cases with ASD who underwent ASD closure with the ACO were retrospectively reviewed at Lady Reading Hospital-Medical Teaching Institution (LRH-MTI), Peshawar, Pakistan. All the required data were obtained from the hospital management information system (HMIS), including patient demographics, defect features, procedure specifics, complications, and outcomes. Results Of all patients, 83.3% (n=5) were females and 16.7% (n=1) were males, and the mean age of the group was 27.7 ± 7.9 years. The results of echocardiography showed variation, with a mean fenestrated septum size of 22.4 mm (SD ± 5.4) and a range of device sizes between 18 and 35 mm. The ideal access method for device deployment in every situation was the right femoral vein. There were very few complications; in one instance, a residual shunt necessitated replacing the device. During the six-month follow-up, no complications were found, and all patients were discharged without any problems. Conclusion In conclusion, our study indicates that the ACO is a good choice for young adult patients' ASD closure, showing good safety and efficacy. To verify these results and evaluate the long-term functioning of the device, more prospective trials with larger cohorts are required.

[Pulmonary hypertension in adults with congenital heart disease in light of the 2022-ESC-PAH guidelines - Part II: Supportive therapy, special situations (pregnancy, contraception, non-cardiac surgery), targeted pharmacotherapy, organ transplantation, special management (shunt lesions, left ventricular disorders, univentricular hearts), interventions, intensive care, follow-up, future perspectives]

The number of adults with congenital heart defects (CHD) is steadily rising and amounts to approximately 360,000 in Germany. CHD is often associated with pulmonary hypertension (PH), which may develop early in untreated CHD. Despite timely treatment of CHD, PH not infrequently persists or recurs in older age and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.The revised European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society 2022 guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of PH represent a significant contribution to the optimized care of those affected. However, the topic of "adults with congenital heart disease" is addressed only relatively superficial in these guidelines. Therefore, in the present article, this topic is commented in detail from the perspective of congenital cardiology.

Can Artificial Intelligence Revolutionize the Diagnosis and Management of the Atrial Septal Defect in Children?

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) present a significant healthcare challenge, demanding accurate and timely diagnosis and precise management to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare are rapidly evolving, offering promise for enhanced medical decision-making and patient care. In the context of cardiology, the integration of AI promises to provide more efficient and accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment strategies for ASD patients. In interventional cardiology, sometimes the lack of precise measurement of the cardiac rims evaluated by transthoracic echocardiography combined with the floppy aspect of the rims can mislead and result in complications. AI software can be created to generate responses for difficult tasks, like which device is the most suitable for different shapes and dimensions to prevent embolization or erosion. This paper reviews the current state of AI in healthcare and its applications in cardiology, emphasizing the specific opportunities and challenges in applying AI to ASD diagnosis and management. By exploring the capabilities and limitations of AI in ASD diagnosis and management. This paper highlights the evolution of medical practice towards a more AI-augmented future, demonstrating the capacity of AI to unlock new possibilities for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Fenestration: Integrating Wings Into the Atrial Septal Occluder for Navigating a Challenging Terrain

Background Atrial septal defect (ASD) closure with significant left-to-right shunt and concurrent comorbidities poses challenges for intervention. A fenestrated atrial septal defect (FASD) device is a viable option for patients who cannot undergo complete occlusion due to hemodynamic and medical reasons. This study explores the use of FASD occluders in patients with secundum ASD and associated comorbidities where complete occlusion is difficult. Methodology This retrospective study collected the details of patients recommended for FASD closure diagnosed with significant secundum ASD and who had additional comorbidities between July 2015 and July 2023 in a tertiary cardiac center in eastern India. Among this cohort, patients who underwent FASD device placement were subjected to a comprehensive analysis. Results In total, 16 patients diagnosed with secundum ASD, characterized by significant left-to-right shunt and concurrent comorbidities, were considered for FASD closure during the study period. Ultimately, 13 patients (first group) underwent fenestrated atrial septal occluder implantation. The average age was 45.07 years, with the majority being females (n = 9). Comorbidities among this cohort included substantial left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (n = 7), left ventricular diastolic dysfunction coupled with moderate pulmonary hypertension (n = 1), severe pulmonary hypertension (n = 1), severe pulmonary valvular stenosis with right ventricular diastolic dysfunction (n = 2), and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) (n = 2). From this cohort, three patients did not undergo the intervention. The second group consisted of an elderly patient with severe left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, a young adult with a history of left atrial arrhythmia, and a child with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The average ASD size among patients who underwent the intervention was 26.38 mm, with a thick-to-thick dimension measuring 31.15 mm. The procedure was successful in all 13 patients, with the most frequently used device being a 34 mm occluder (range = 28-40 mm). All devices, excluding the initial one, were custom-made atrial septal occluders (Lifetech Scientific). Among the patients, 12 exhibited left-to-right fenestration flow, while one patient experienced fenestration constriction, likely due to occluder overcrowding. The first patient had a handmade 5 mm fenestration in a 40 mm Amplatzer septal occluder, which got closed off at the one-year follow-up. The procedure was well-tolerated hemodynamically in all patients, with no major complications during the peri-procedural period. Short-term follow-up indicated favorable patient progress. Conclusions FASD closure emerges as a pivotal alternative for intricate scenarios involving secundum ASD coupled with concurrent comorbidities, offering individualized tailored solutions. Alongside the conventional associated comorbidities, such as left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and pulmonary hypertension, FASD devices hold the potential to extend their benefits to patients grappling with other complexities, including severe pulmonary valvular stenosis, SLE, predisposition to left atrial arrhythmia, and conditions like DMD. Ensuring meticulous evaluation of patient suitability and providing ongoing vigilant care becomes paramount for achieving optimal outcomes. The validation of these findings and the broadening of the comprehension of this approach necessitate further comprehensive investigations.

Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect: A Review of Currently Used Devices

Over the past seven decades, significant advancements and innovations have occurred in the field of percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure using transcatheter-based devices. This article focuses on the current literature surrounding the three Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved devices for ASD and patent foramen ovale (PFO) closure in the United States, namely, the Amplatzer Septal Occluder (ASO), Amplatzer Cribriform Occluder, and Gore Cardioform ASD Occluder. The ASO has been widely used since its FDA approval in 2001. Studies have shown its high success rate in closing ASDs, especially small-sized defects. The RESPECT trial demonstrated that PFO closure using the ASO reduced the risk of recurrent ischemic stroke compared to medical therapy alone. The Closure of Atrial Septal Defects With the Amplatzer Septal Occluder Post-Approval Study (ASD PMS II) evaluated the safety and effectiveness of ASO in a large cohort of patients, reporting a high closure success rate and rare hemodynamic compromise. The Amplatzer Cribriform Occluder is designed for the closure of multifenestrated ASDs and has shown promising results in small-scale studies. It successfully closed the majority of fenestrated ASDs, leading to improved right ventricular diastolic pressure without major complications. The REDUCE trial compared PFO closure using the Gore Helex Septal Occluder and Gore Cardioform Septal Occluder with antiplatelet therapy alone. The study demonstrated that PFO closure significantly reduced the risk of recurrent stroke and brain infarction compared to antiplatelet therapy alone. However, the closure group had a higher incidence of atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. There is a risk of atrial fibrillation with the use of ASO as well. The FDA-approved Gore Cardioform ASD Occluder showed excellent performance in the ASSURED clinical study. The device achieved high technical success and closure rates, with low rates of serious adverse events and device-related complications. A meta-analysis comparing transcatheter ASD closure with surgical closure revealed that the transcatheter approach had a high success rate, lower rates of adverse events, and shorter hospital stays compared to surgery, without any mortality. Complications associated with transcatheter ASD closure have been reported, including femoral arteriovenous fistulas, device embolization, cardiac erosion, aortic incompetence, and new-onset migraine. However, these complications are relatively rare. In conclusion, transcatheter ASD closure using FDA-approved devices has proven to be safe and effective in the majority of cases. These devices offer excellent closure rates, reduced risk of recurrent stroke, and shorter hospital stays compared to surgery. However, careful patient selection and follow-up are necessary to minimize complications and ensure optimal outcomes.

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.

Challenges in Device Closure of Secundum Atrial Septal Defect in Older Patients in Their Fifth Decade and Beyond

Objective

Transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure in the older population presents a greater challenge due to the long-standing effect of atrial left-to-right shunt. This study analyzes the challenges encountered in transcatheter ASD device closure in older patients in their fifth decade and beyond.

Methods

Adults aged 40 years and above with significant secundum ASD who underwent transcatheter ASD device closure between June 2015 and April 2021 were analyzed. Challenges were classified as major and minor challenges based on their impact on the alteration of the treatment protocol. Patients were categorized into three subgroups according to age. Group 1 consisted of patients aged 40-49 years (n = 13), Group 2 consisted of patients aged 50-59 years (n = 16), and Group 3 consisted of patients aged 60 years and above (n = 8).

Results

A total of 37 patients were analyzed. The challenges encountered were arrhythmia, pulmonary hypertension, left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, bleeding, stroke, coronary artery disease (CAD), hypertension, and airway disease. Thirteen percent of challenges were seen in pre-procedure time, whereas 79% of challenges during the procedure and 8% of challenges during post-procedure were seen. Thirty-five patients (94.6%) underwent transcatheter ASD device closure. Two patients (5.4%) did not undergo transcatheter ASD device closure due to severe diastolic dysfunction and associated CAD, respectively. Eleven major challenges were encountered in 10 patients in which one patient had a dual challenge of bleeding and arrhythmia. Thirteen patients (35.1%) had smooth procedures without any challenges encountered. Twenty-seven minor challenges were encountered in 20 patients with some patients having an overlap of multiple major and minor challenges. The patients were doing well at the mean follow-up of 28 months.

Conclusions

Transcatheter ASD device closure in older patients who are 40 years and above is safe and effective. Such high-risk patients are prone to various challenges that can be effectively managed if optimally monitored on the basis of a proper understanding of the altered physiology and anticipation of the deviated course at various stages of the procedure.

Restriction of congenital portosystemic shunt using the modified microvascular plug

Congenital portosystemic shunts (CPSS) may produce a variety of severe, clinically detrimental presentations. When indicated, closure is recommended; however, if the intrahepatic portal venous system (IPVS) is underdeveloped complete closure may not be possible and may result in severe acute portal hypertension. Staged restriction of CPSS flow by both surgical and complex transcatheter interventions has been successful in augmenting development of the IPVS such that complete occlusion of the CPSS can be performed. We report use of a modified microvascular plug to restrict CPSS flow with subsequent IPVS development and safe complete occlusion of CPSS.

Modern advances regarding interatrial communication in congenital heart defects

BACKGROUND

The interatrial communication, one of the most frequent congenital heart defects, represents an important intracardiac shunt between systemic and pulmonary circulations. Direction and magnitude of the interatrial shunting depends upon several features, including defect size, shape and location, pressure difference between right and left atrium, and difference in right and left ventricular compliance.

METHODS

In this review article, the presence or absence of interatrial communication, and its role, have been analyzed, as they can have a critical impact on the cardiovascular physiopathology, and the interatrial communication can prove to be either clinically harmful, useful or indispensable. Accordingly, the utility and role of the interatrial communication in modern congenital, pediatric and adult, disease has evolved, with modification of the indications to close, maintain patency, or create an interatrial communication.

RESULTS

The interatrial communication and shunting can be manipulated to maximize the oxygen delivery to the tissues, accordingly with the underlying congenital heart defect. While not always relevant to patients with bi-ventricular circulations, this becomes extremely important in children and adults with complex congenital heart defects.

CONCLUSIONS

With improving long-term survival for the vast majority of congenital heart patients, an advanced understanding of the role and utility of the interatrial communication, and of all the possibilities of its manipulation, is essential to improve the patient outcomes.

Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect Associated With Pulmonary Artery Hypertension using Fenestrated Devices

In patients with pulmonary artery hypertension (PAH) associated with atrial septal defect (ASD), closure of ASD may carry significant risks. We aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transcatheter closure of ASD in selected patients with PAH using a fenestrated device followed by pulmonary vasodilator therapy. During the 14.8-year period, 51 ASD patients (10 males, age 46 ± 18 years) with a mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) ≥ 35 mm Hg and/or systolic PAP ≥ 60 mm Hg, underwent closure with a fenestrated device. Of them, mean Qp/Qs ratio, systolic PAP and mean PAP were 2.6 ± 1.2, 73 ± 14 mm Hg, and 44 ± 8 mm Hg, respectively. A total of 35 patients received pulmonary vasodilator therapy. The New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class improved at 3 to 6 months follow-up. (p < 0.001) Nineteen patients underwent repeated catheterization. A comparison of the hemodynamic parameters between baseline and repeated catheterization revealed significant decreases in both systolic and mean PAP (77 ± 11 vs 55 ± 14 mm Hg, p < 0.0001 & 48 ± 7 vs 37 ± 8 mm Hg, p = 0.001, respectively), pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) (5.1 ± 2.3 vs 4.0 ± 1.7 WU, p = 0.011) and PVRi (7.7 ± 3.3 vs 6.2 ± 2.4 WU*m2, p = 0.024). After a follow-up period of 84 ± 45 months, 6 mortalities were noted in which 2 were due to cardiac causes. In conclusion, catheter closure of ASD in patients with PAH using a fenestrated device followed by vasodilator therapy is safe and effective.

How to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm: a consensus recommendation from the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Making a firm diagnosis of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a challenge. We recommend a new stepwise diagnostic process, the 'HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm'. Step 1 (P=Pre-test assessment) is typically performed in the ambulatory setting and includes assessment for HF symptoms and signs, typical clinical demographics (obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, elderly, atrial fibrillation), and diagnostic laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. In the absence of overt non-cardiac causes of breathlessness, HFpEF can be suspected if there is a normal left ventricular ejection fraction, no significant heart valve disease or cardiac ischaemia, and at least one typical risk factor. Elevated natriuretic peptides support, but normal levels do not exclude a diagnosis of HFpEF. The second step (E: Echocardiography and Natriuretic Peptide Score) requires comprehensive echocardiography and is typically performed by a cardiologist. Measures include mitral annular early diastolic velocity (e'), left ventricular (LV) filling pressure estimated using E/e', left atrial volume index, LV mass index, LV relative wall thickness, tricuspid regurgitation velocity, LV global longitudinal systolic strain, and serum natriuretic peptide levels. Major (2 points) and Minor (1 point) criteria were defined from these measures. A score ≥5 points implies definite HFpEF; ≤1 point makes HFpEF unlikely. An intermediate score (2-4 points) implies diagnostic uncertainty, in which case Step 3 (F1: Functional testing) is recommended with echocardiographic or invasive haemodynamic exercise stress tests. Step 4 (F2: Final aetiology) is recommended to establish a possible specific cause of HFpEF or alternative explanations. Further research is needed for a better classification of HFpEF.

Evolving Paradigms in the Treatment of Atrial Septal Defects With Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension

Atrial septal defects are one of the most frequently diagnosed congenital heart defects in adulthood. The presence of concurrent moderate or severe pulmonary arterial hypertension without Eisenmenger syndrome at the time of diagnosis can make for a challenging clinical scenario. There is continually evolving literature to determine the ideal approach to this subset of patients. Here we aim to review the clinical presentation, history, medical therapy, and closure options for atrial septal defects-pulmonary arterial hypertension with predominant left-to-right shunting, in the absence of Eisenmenger syndrome.

Combination of F-ASO and Targeted Medical Therapy in Patients With Secundum ASD and Severe PAH

OBJECTIVES

This study was conducted to investigate the combined use of fenestrated atrial septal occluder (F-ASO) and targeted medical therapy (TMT) in patients with secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) and severe pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

BACKGROUND

Treatment of patients with ASD and severe PAH is still challenging.

METHODS

After ethical approval was obtained, 56 consecutive patients with ASD with severe PAH were included (7 men, 49 women; median age 50.5 years; mean ASD size 26.9 ± 4.6 mm). After 3 months of TMT, transcatheter closure was performed using F-ASO in patients with ratios of pulmonary to systemic blood flow ≥1.5. TMT was continued post-operatively together with 6 months of dual-antiplatelet therapy. The hemodynamic variables during baseline, TMT alone, and combined treatment with F-ASO were compared.

RESULTS

After only TMT, systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (-14.5 mm Hg; p < 0.001), pulmonary vascular resistance (-3.9 Wood units; p < 0.001), and exercise capacity (+72.0 m; p < 0.001) improved. Ratio of pulmonary to systemic blood flow increased by 0.9 (p < 0.001), with adverse cardiac remodeling (right ventricular dimension +3.5 mm; p < 0.001). Closure with F-ASO (median size 34.0 mm) led to further decrease in systolic pulmonary artery pressure (-6.0 mm Hg; p < 0.001). Follow-up (median duration 10 months) revealed further improvement in exercise capacity (+60.5 m; p < 0.001), with favorable cardiac remodeling (right ventricular dimension -9.9 mm; p < 0.001). In addition, all fenestrations were stable (p = 0.699), with negligible shunt (median ratio of pulmonary to systemic blood flow 1.1) and no complications. One year later, pulmonary artery pressure was normalized in 8 of 19 patients, and PAH recurred in 5 patients after discontinuation of TMT.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with ASD and severe PAH, combination of F-ASO and TMT was a safe and effective procedure. Compared with TMT alone, the combined treatment further improved exercise capacity, with favorable cardiac remodeling.

Left atrial appendage and atrial septal occlusion in elderly patients with atrial septal defect and atrial fibrillation

BACKGROUND

Elderly patients with atrial septal defect (ASD) often present with chronic atrial fibrillation and large left to right shunt. This study reports the experience of left atrial appendage (LAA) and ASD closure in patients with significant ASD and chronic atrial fibrillation.

METHODS

We report six consecutive elderly patients with chronic atrial fibrillation and significant ASD who underwent LAA and fenestrated ASD closure from January 1, 2014 until December 31, 2019. All periprocedural and long-term (>1 year) outcomes were reported.

RESULTS

Six patients (male: 33.3%; mean age: 66.8 ± 3.3 years) were included. Mean CHADS₂ , CHA₂ DS₂ -VAS_c , and HAS-BLED scores were 2.33 ± 0.82, 3.83 ± 0.75, and 1.83 ± 0.75. Four patients underwent simultaneous procedure, while two patients underwent a staged procedure. Procedural success was achieved in all patients. Total occlusion was achieved during LAA occlusion without device embolization prior to ASD closure. Patients who underwent simultaneous procedure had a shorter total hospital stay and lower total hospital stay. During a follow-up period of 32.8 ± 19.4 months, both the devices were well seated. No device-related thrombosis or erosion reported. All patients remained in atrial fibrillation. No patients experienced any thromboembolic stroke or transient ischemic attack.

CONCLUSIONS

LAA and ASD closure is feasible and can be safely performed in the same seating in elderly patients with a significant ASD.

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.

How to diagnose heart failure with preserved ejection fraction: the HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm: a consensus recommendation from the Heart Failure Association (HFA) of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC)

Making a firm diagnosis of chronic heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a challenge. We recommend a new stepwise diagnostic process, the 'HFA-PEFF diagnostic algorithm'. Step 1 (P=Pre-test assessment) is typically performed in the ambulatory setting and includes assessment for heart failure symptoms and signs, typical clinical demographics (obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, elderly, atrial fibrillation), and diagnostic laboratory tests, electrocardiogram, and echocardiography. In the absence of overt non-cardiac causes of breathlessness, HFpEF can be suspected if there is a normal left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction, no significant heart valve disease or cardiac ischaemia, and at least one typical risk factor. Elevated natriuretic peptides support, but normal levels do not exclude a diagnosis of HFpEF. The second step (E: Echocardiography and Natriuretic Peptide Score) requires comprehensive echocardiography and is typically performed by a cardiologist. Measures include mitral annular early diastolic velocity (e'), LV filling pressure estimated using E/e', left atrial volume index, LV mass index, LV relative wall thickness, tricuspid regurgitation velocity, LV global longitudinal systolic strain, and serum natriuretic peptide levels. Major (2 points) and Minor (1 point) criteria were defined from these measures. A score ≥5 points implies definite HFpEF; ≤1 point makes HFpEF unlikely. An intermediate score (2-4 points) implies diagnostic uncertainty, in which case Step 3 (F₁ : Functional testing) is recommended with echocardiographic or invasive haemodynamic exercise stress tests. Step 4 (F₂ : Final aetiology) is recommended to establish a possible specific cause of HFpEF or alternative explanations. Further research is needed for a better classification of HFpEF.

Challenges in the Patient With Pulmonary Hypertension and Atrial Septal Defect: Understanding When and How to Close the Defect

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) are common congenital heart defects in children and adults. Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is found in subsets of both pediatric and adult patients with atrial defects under varied clinical contexts. The pulmonary hypertension specialist is often faced with questions surrounding timing and method of defect closure, which may have significant impact on procedural and long-term morbidity and survival. This review highlights important differences in management between children and adults with ASDs associated with PAH, highlighting indications for closure, operability, types of closure, and long-term outcomes.

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.

Fenestrated ASD device "angioplasty": How to adjust a "pop-off" mechanism when needed

We report on three cases of atrial septal defect (ASD) closure where a handmade fenestration had to be modified after device implantation. Two patients suffered from left ventricular diastolic dysfunction and one had severe pulmonary arterial hypertension. Amplatzer ASD occluder fenestration was created in all patients. Devices were implanted using an "over-the-wire" implantation technique. Due to a sub-optimal hemodynamic result, fenestration was upsized by using a new technique.

Hemodynamic assessment of atrial septal defects

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is one of the most common congenital cardiac anomalies. ASD can present as an isolated lesion in an otherwise normal heart or in association with other congenital heart conditions. Regardless of the type of ASD, the direction and degree of shunting across the communication is mainly determined by the difference in compliance between the right and left ventricle. Hemodynamics in children is characterized by left-to-right shunting, dilated right heart structures and normal pulmonary artery pressures (PAP). Patients diagnosed at adult age often present with complications related to long-standing volume overload such as pulmonary artery hypertension and right and left ventricular dysfunction. Diagnostic catheterization is usually not indicated unless there is suggestion of pulmonary hypertension on echocardiography. In older patients and/or in those with ventricular dysfunction, measurement of left heart pressures during temporary balloon occlusion is recommended prior to device closure as it may not be tolerated. In ASD associated with other congenital malformations, shunting degree and direction will depend upon underlying condition. Restrictive ASD can result in significant hemodynamic compromise in neonates with conditions such as hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) and transposition of the great arteries (TGA). In most cases, hemodynamics can be estimated with echocardiography only.

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.

Percutaneous closure of residual shunting in a patient with a fenestrated atrial septal defect occluder: A case report

RATIONALE

Fenestrated atrial septal defect (ASD) occlusion has been performed in patients complicated with severe pulmonary hypertension (PH). Nevertheless, the persistent interatrial residual shunting in the fenestration might increase the risk of paradoxical embolism. Percutaneous closure of fenestrated ASD occluder (ASO) has not yet been reported.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 26-year-old patient with a 25-mm ASD and severe PH underwent ASD closure using a Memory ASO with a waist of 32 and 6-mm custom-made fenestration. Echocardiography revealed the fenestration remained 6 mm and the pulmonary artery pressure decreased to the normal range at the 6-month follow-up.

DIAGNOSES

Persistent interatrial residual shunting in ASO.

INTERVENTIONS

Percutaneous closure of residual interatrial shunting was performed using a waist of 8-mm ASO under guidance of TEE.

OUTCOMES

The fenestration was successfully closed. Neither thromboembolism nor infection events were noted during the 12-month follow-up after the procedure.

LESSONS

This case illustrates that percutaneous closure of the residual shunting in fenestrated ASO was feasible and safe for short- and long-term.