SURGICAL REPAIR OF A LARGE RESIDUAL ATRIAL SEPTAL-DEFECT AFTER TRANSCATHETER CLOSURE

Transcatheter closure of ostium secundum atrial septal defects is a le ss invasive method of repairing atrial septal defects in comparison wi th an open heart operation. In selected patients the transvenous closu re of atrial septal defects may be an effective alternative. Defects w ith circumferential septal rims, secundum atrial defects, and patent f oramen are the best candidates for this method. We report a case in wh ich a large residual atrial septal defect after transvenous closure wi th a Sideris occluder device required surgical closure. (C) 1997 by Th e Society of Thoracic Surgeons.