Transcatheter Closure of Apical Septal Rupture With Third Cavity Formation After Surgical Repair

Apical septal rupture following surgical closure of a ventricular septal defect is a rare but life-threatening complication. Reoperation in such cases may be high risk, making transcatheter closure a viable and less invasive alternative.

We report an 8-month-old male infant who presented with cardiac failure with Ross class-III and severe respiratory distress. Clinical examination and imaging revealed an apical septal tear with formation of a third cavity extending toward the right ventricle and compromising right ventricular and left ventricular function. The patient underwent successful percutaneous device closure of the defect with complete recovery and no complications.

This case highlights the safety and efficacy of transcatheter closure in complex postsurgical ventricular septal defects. The minimally invasive nature of this approach makes it preferable in high-risk surgical candidates. Further studies are warranted to standardize outcomes for such interventions.

Transcatheter closure is a safe, effective alternative in postsurgical congenital heart defects where reoperation poses a significant risk.