Transcatheter device closure for atrial septal defects: safety, efficacy, complications, and costs

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) have traditionally been repaired by surgical closure. Recently, transcatheter device closure has increasingly been used with excellent results. Comparative research evaluating long-term outcomes of transcatheter technique data reveal significantly fewer complications and shorter hospital stays than those reported for surgical repairs. This article reviews relevant literature comparing safety and efficacy, costs, and complications of transcatheter device procedures with surgical closure of ASDs.