Percutaneous closure of interatrial ostium secundum defects using the Amplatzer device. Apropos of the initial 5 Tunisian cases

We report our initial experience with percutaneous closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defect using Amplatzer device. Between september 2000 and July 2001, five devices were implanted in 5 patients, 4 female and 1 male. Age ranged from 18 to 66 years. A large atrial septal defect with significant shunting was diagnosed by trans thoracic echocardiography. Procedures were performed under general anesthesia with trans esophageal echocardiography guidance. Stretched diameter of atrial septal defects was determined by balloon sizing, ranged from 21 to 32 mm. Amplatzer devices of 20 to 32 mm were respectively deployed. No complications occurred during the procedure. Total occlusion of interatrial communication, was observed in one patient, immediately after the procedure, and in 3 patients 24 hours later. First 3 patients were controlled at months follow up were free of complications. Closure of atrial septal defect with Amplatzer device appears feasible and safe. However, long term results in comparison to surgery remain to be determined before definite conclusion regarding its use can be made.