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Updated: May 14, 2025

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
Multimodal Management of Complex Congenital Heart Disease: A Case of Atrial and Ventricular Septal Defects With a
Ömer Işik1, Kardelen Kizilay2, Mehmet Dik3
1Cardiology, Firat University Hospital, Elazig, TUR.
Insights
This case study details a female patient with complex congenital heart disease (CHD), including atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD). Treatment involved surgical and percutaneous closure, demonstrating effective management of residual defects and improved cardiac function.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Medical Case Study
Background:
- Congenital heart disease (CHD) encompasses structural heart abnormalities present at birth, influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
- Atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) are prevalent forms of CHD, with ASD often diagnosed later in life, particularly in females.
- Early intervention for CHD is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
Observation:
- A female patient with CHD, including ASD, VSD, and a bifid left ventricular apex, underwent initial surgical ASD closure at age 17.
- Eight years post-surgery, residual ASD and VSD necessitated percutaneous transcatheter closure.
- The patient also presented with mitral valve prolapse and moderate mitral regurgitation, requiring continued monitoring.
Findings:
- Percutaneous closure successfully addressed residual ASD and VSD, significantly reducing left-to-right shunting and right ventricular pressure.
- Post-procedural imaging confirmed effective defect closure and improved hemodynamics.
- Persistent mitral valve abnormalities underscore the complexity of managing CHD.
Implications:
- This case highlights the utility of a multimodal approach, combining surgical and percutaneous techniques for complex CHD.
- The presence of a bifid apex warrants careful evaluation for associated cardiac anomalies.
- Long-term monitoring with advanced imaging like cardiac MRI is essential for assessing ventricular function and managing potential complications.
Abstract:
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the most common congenital anomalies influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) are among the most common types of CHD. ASD is more common in females and often remains asymptomatic during childhood, leading to delayed diagnosis. Both surgical and percutaneous closure techniques are used, with evidence supporting early intervention for improved outcomes. This study presents the case of a female patient with CHD, including ASD, VSD, and a bifid left ventricular apex, who was treated with both surgical and percutaneous approaches. The patient underwent open heart surgery for ASD closure at the age of 17 years. Eight years later, residual ASD and VSD were identified, and percutaneous transcatheter closure was performed using closure devices. Post-procedural imaging confirmed successful defect closure, a significant reduction in left-to-right shunting, and a decrease in right ventricular pressure. However, residual mitral valve prolapse and moderate mitral regurgitation persisted, requiring ongoing monitoring. The presence of a bifid apex in this patient adds a unique anatomic consideration to managing CHD. While typically considered a benign variant, its association with other structural abnormalities requires careful evaluation. Future management strategies should include detailed imaging studies, such as cardiac MRI, to assess long-term ventricular function and detect potential complications. This case highlights the importance of a comprehensive, multimodal management strategy that includes surgical and transcatheter techniques for complex coronary artery disease cases. Regular follow-up with echocardiography and cardiac MRI is essential to monitor residual defects, assess ventricular function, and ensure long-term treatment success. Early detection and timely intervention are critical to optimizing patient outcomes, preventing complications, and improving quality of life.
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