Transcatheter Correction of Superior Sinus Venosus Atrial Septal Defects as an Alternative to Surgical Treatment

The superior sinus venosus atrial septal defect (SVASD) is characterized by deficiency of the common wall between the superior vena cava (SVC) and the right upper pulmonary vein (RUPV), which is no longer committed to the left atrium.

This study sought to evaluate the potential for redirecting the SVC and RUPV flow to the right and left atria, respectively, by implantation of a covered stent in the SVC.

Review of 48 consecutive adult SVASD patients undergoing assessment for correction. Pre-procedural evaluation included cross-sectional imaging and ex vivo simulation using printed or virtual 3-dimensional models.

Transcatheter correction was performed in 25 patients, with a further 6 awaiting stent implantation. Only 8 patients were deemed technically unsuitable. The procedure involved balloon test inflation in the anticipated stent landing zone with simultaneous transesophageal echocardiography and pulmonary venography to confirm defect closure and unobstructed pulmonary venous drainage, followed by deployment of a 10-zig covered Cheatham platinum stent. Stents of lengths between 5 and 8 cm were implanted. A second, uncovered stent was used for anchoring in 9 patients. The RUPV was protected with a high-pressure balloon during stent implantation to prevent pulmonary venous obstruction in 4 patients. The median follow-up period was 1.4 (interquartile range: 0.8 to 1.7) years, with no mortality. Stent embolization occurred in 1 patient; another required drainage of hemopericardium. Cardiac computed tomography after 3 months confirmed unobstructed pulmonary venous return. At latest follow-up, a residual shunt was present in 1 patient.

Transcatheter correction of SVASD may be considered as an alternative to surgery in a substantial proportion of patients.