Septal
Closures
Why is the doctor performing this procedure?
To close an abnormal hole (called a defect) between two of
the heart's chambers. Septal closure is used most often to
repair atrial septal defects (ASD) and patent foramen ovales
(PFO).
What is the procedure?
There are two techniques to repair a septal defect: the
traditional surgical method or a less-invasive, catheter-based
approach. The doctor will determine which technique is best,
depending upon the severity and type of defect.
Septal Closure utilizing the catheter-based technique allows
minimally invasive closure of an atrial septal defect (ASD),
a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or a ventricular septal defect
(VSD). A balloon-tipped catheter is inserted first into an
artery, usually in the groin (the femoral artery). It is advanced
to the right side of the heart and positioned with the defect.
The balloon is inflated and deflated, producing an indentation
to accurately measure the size and shape of the defect. The
balloon catheter is removed, and then another catheter with
the septal closure device attached is advanced to the right
side of the heart. Once properly positioned within the defect,
an umbrella-like device is opened within the heart's chambers:
first in the left atrium (or ventricle) and then in the right
atrium (or ventricle). The umbrella seals tightly to the surrounding
normal septal tissue, creating a permanent closure of the
defect. The catheter is removed, and the septal closure device
remains in place.
Closures of ASDs, PFOs, and VSDs are usually performed using
ultrasound catheters to visualize and guide the procedure.
These catheters are usually placed via a vein in the leg (Intracardiac
Echo or ICE) or through the esophagus (Transesophageal Echo
(TEE).
Where is the procedure performed?
In the Cardiac Catheterization Lab.
How long does this procedure take?
Septal closure usually takes 1-2 hours.
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