Transcatheter Atrial Septal Defect Device Closure

Also known as: ASD closure by cardiac catheterization.

What is transcatheter atrial septal defect device closure?

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is an opening in the heart between the right and left atrium (upper chambers of the heart) that should not be there. It results in abnormal blood flow from the left to the right side of the heart, making the right side of the heart become enlarged, and work harder than it should. It also increases the blood flow into the lungs to an abnormal level, overall causing significant long-term complications if left open.

Transcatheter atrial septal defect closure is a non-surgical procedure that can close the defect without the need for open heart surgery, and avoids a scar in the chest.

What happens during the procedure?

Transcatheter atrial septal defect device closure is a minimally invasive solution for ASD that is as effective as open heart surgery. A catheter (a long, thin flexible tube) is inserted into a blood vessel at the groin and guided to the heart. A closure device is inserted through this tube and placed at the site of the ASD, closing the whole and eliminating the abnormal blood flow within the heart.

Is any special preparation needed?

The child (or adult) will need to stop taking food or drink, as well as certain medications, starting the night before the procedure. If you/your child are taking blood-thinners you may be asked to stop taking them a few days before the procedure.

What are the risks?

Closure of an atrial septal defect by cardiac catheterization is a very safe procedure, and complications are very uncommon. Possible complications of transcatheter ASD closure include abnormal heart rhythm, dislodgement of the device, and soreness/bruising at the groin site where the vessels were entered in order to do the procedure.

Transcatheter atrial septal defect device closure at Nicklaus Children’s Hospital

Transcatheter atrial septal defect closure is performed by Nicklaus Children’s Hospital’s team of top-notch medical professionals using the most cutting edge techniques.


This page was last updated on: April 30, 2021 04:18 PM

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