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Updated: Jan 14, 2026

Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
Recurrent Right Atrial Thrombus After Percutaneous ASD Closure
Hidemi Kajimoto1, Grant Burch2, Castigliano M Bhamidipati2
1Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA; University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA.
Background:
Percutaneous device closure is the preferred approach for closing secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs), offering a minimally invasive alternative to surgery. Although generally safe, device-related thrombus formation is a rare but serious complication, with limited evidence guiding diagnosis and management.
Case Summary:
We present a case of a 35-year-old woman who underwent percutaneous device closure of a secundum ASD. She developed intermittent fevers within 48 hours postprocedure, though initial work-up was negative. Three months later, a routine transthoracic echocardiogram revealed a mobile mass attached to the ASD device. She underwent AngioVac thrombectomy, but recurrence of thrombus required surgical removal of the device and ASD patch closure.
Discussion:
This case highlights a rare but serious complication of ASD device closure, underscoring the importance of vigilant follow-up and individualized antithrombotic strategies.
Take-Home Messages:
Recurrent thrombus formation after ASD device closure is rare but may necessitate surgical intervention in high-risk patients. Individualized risk assessment, including prothrombotic states and residual shunting, should guide postprocedural antithrombotic strategies.
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