Long-term outcome of transcatheter secundum-type atrial septal defect closure using Amplatzer septal occluders

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess long-term results of percutaneous closure of secundum-type atrial septal defect (ASD II) using Amplatzer septal occluders (ASO).

Background: Only immediate-, short-, and intermediate-term results of ASO implantation are known so far.

Methods: Between September 1995 and January 2000, 151 patients underwent a successful percutaneous closure of ASD II in our institution. All were included in the present study and were followed up until September 2004.

Results: This group of patients was followed up from 56 to 108 months (median 78 months). The mean stretched defect diameter was 15.9 +/- 4.8 mm. There were no deaths or significant complications during the study. At three years of follow-up, all defects were completely closed and remained closed thereafter.

Conclusions: Since the first human implantations in September 1995, the Amplatzer septal occluder proved as a safe and effective device for percutaneous closure of ASD II.