Transcatheter and Hybrid Ventricular Septal Defect Closure

Also known as: VSD repair by cardiac catheterization.

What is transcatheter ventricular septal defect closure?

A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is an opening in the heart between the left and right ventricles that should not be there. It is one of the most common heart-related birth defects. Transcatheter ventricular septal defect closure is a potential method to fix the problem (close the hole) in some specific types of VSDs.

What happens during the procedure?

Many VSDs require open heart surgery to repair the hole between the ventricles. Although this is an invasive surgical procedure, it is very safe and it is the procedure of choice for most types of VSDs.

However, some VSDs can be closed with a transcatheter procedure, which involves placing a device to close the defect using a catheter (a thin, flexible tube that is guided to the heart through a blood vessel, typically introduced from the groin). This procedure is less invasive, but it only works for some VSDs.

In certain types of VSDs, a combination of surgical and catheterization techniques, referred to as “hybrid VSD closure” is the best approach, and also avoids open heart surgery.  

Is any special preparation needed?

Your child will need to stop taking liquids and food, as well as certain medications, the night before the procedure. If your child are taking blood-thinners you may be asked to stop taking them a few days before the procedure.

What are the possible complications?

Complications of transcatheter VSD closure are uncommon, and include abnormal heart rhythm, injury to intracardiac structures, and soreness/bruising at the groin site where the vessels were entered in order to do the procedure.

Transcatheter and hybrid ventricular septal defect closure at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Transcatheter and hybrid ventricular septal defect closures are performed by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s team of top-notch medical professionals using the most cutting edge techniques.

Reviewed by: Lourdes Rosa Prieto, MD

This page was last updated on: April 30, 2021 04:14 PM