Transcatheter Device Closure of Atrial Septal Defects

Abstract

In Japan, percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure has been conducted for approximately 20 years. Percutaneous ASD closure has been established as a standard therapy for patients with ASD of various ages, from infants to older adults, because it is a less invasive procedure without sternotomy. It is not recommended for patients with primum, sinus venosus, and coronary sinus type ASDs but for those with ostium secundum ASD. Detailed anatomical assessments of a defect by transesophageal echocardiography are crucial for deciding the indication of percutaneous ASD closure because the procedural success depends on the location and size of the defect. As three types of devices for ASD closure are currently available in Japan, fully understanding the characteristics and practices of these devices to prevent serious complications related to this procedure, including cardiac erosion and device embolization, is needed.