Step-by-Step Closure of Atrial Septal Defects (ASDs)

Abstract

Device closure of secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs) was initially described in 1974, but it was not until the Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) (Fig. 26.1a) became available in the mid-1990s that it became a routine procedure. Since then, there has been significant progress in the ability of operators to tackle anatomically challenging defects, and transcatheter closure of ASDs is considered the procedure of choice for suitable defects in most countries.

There are broadly two types of occluder: self-centering (with a core) and the non-self-centering devices (with a thin central stalk). Self-centering devices are most commonly deployed due to their ability to deal with defects of most sizes.