Transcatheter closure of fenestrations and excluded hepatic veins after fontan: versatility of the Amplatzer device

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to evaluate the Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) for transcatheter closure of fenestrations and excluded hepatic veins in patients after modified Fontan operations. Residual right-to-left shunts have improved surgical results of the Fontan operation. Shunt closure may eventually be desirable to eliminate hypoxemia and reduce risk of embolic complications.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Ten patients with hypoxemia caused by residual shunts after Fontan procedures were evaluated for closure. After favorable results of test occlusion, all shunts were closed with the use of the ASO. Eight ASOs were used to close fenestrations in 7 patients with 6F transvenous sheaths. Three ASOs were used to close excluded hepatic veins in 3 patients with 6F venous sheaths and transbaffle punctures. Fluoroscopy and transesophageal echocardiography were used to guide device placement. Device placement in all patients was successful. All shunts were closed by angiography after device placement. While breathing room air, systemic oxygen saturation rose from 87.9% +/- 3.0% to 96.3% +/- 0. 9% (P <.001) in the patients. There were no complications of the implant procedures and none noted in outpatient follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

This experience suggests that the ASO is safe and effective for closing surgical shunts after Fontan procedures. The ASO design allows closure of excluded hepatic veins and has advantages over other devices in closure of fenestrations.