Atrial Wall Perforation After Atrial Septal Defect Device Closure: A Case Report

Samia Bekheet1,2, Riad Abouzahr2, Zaheer Ahmad2

  • 1Pediatric Cardiology, Cairo University, Cairo, EGY.

Cureus
|April 29, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Transcatheter closure for atrial septal defects (ASDs) can rarely cause erosion. A child developed life-threatening pericardial effusion due to device erosion, requiring surgical repair.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Devices
  • Pediatric Cardiology

Background:

  • Transcatheter device closure is the primary treatment for secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs).
  • The Amplatzer septal occluder (ASO) is a commonly used device for ASD closure.

Observation:

  • A seven-year-old child with secundum ASD underwent successful transcatheter device closure.
  • Two weeks post-procedure, the patient developed acute pericardial effusion.
  • Diagnosis revealed erosion of the atrial roof by the implanted device.

Findings:

  • Echocardiography and cardiac CT confirmed atrial roof erosion by the ASO.
  • The patient required surgical intervention for device removal and atrial tear repair.
  • Successful surgical closure of the ASD and repair of the atrial tear were performed.

Implications:

  • Cardiac erosion is a rare but serious complication of transcatheter ASD device closure.
  • This complication can be life-threatening and necessitates prompt diagnosis and management.
  • Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for cardiac erosion in patients presenting with effusion post-procedure.