ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: To examine the outcomes of percutaneous closure of large atrial septal defects (ASDs) (≥25 mm). BACKGROUND: Data on long-term results after closure of large ASDs are limited. METHODS: We reviewed the records of 275 consecutive patients who underwent transcatheter closure of large (≥25 mm) ASDs from January 1999 until December 2016 in our center. The most common indication for closure was a large left-to-right shunt. Follow-up (FU) was performed at regular intervals thereafter. Results after closure of ASDs with diameters of 25-30 mm, >30-35 mm and >35 mm were compared. RESULTS: Percutaneous closure was technically successful in 99.6%. Mean FU time was 4.8 years (0-15.5 years). Peri-operative (30-day) adverse events occurred in 20.4% and included death in 0.7% (one unrelated to the procedure and one of unknown cause), device erosion in 0.7%, device embolization in 2.9%, pericardial effusion in 5.5%, air embolism in 0.4%, new onset atrial fibrillation in 10.5%, transient supraventricular tachycardia in 0.4% and fever in 0.7%. Late (>30 days after the procedure) atrial fibrillation occurred in 5.8%. There was one device erosion >15 years after the implantation treated successfully surgically. Complete defect closure was achieved in 95.6%. CONCLUSION: Device closure of large ASDs is feasible, safe and effective with high technical success and low risk of serious periprocedural complications. Nevertheless, in very large defects (>40 mm), both options, surgery and percutaneous closure should be considered. Device or procedural long-term adverse events are rare.
