Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 15, 2026

Use of a Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device/Left Atrium to Femoral Artery Bypass System for Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: August 16, 2021
VSD Device Removal Due to Intermittent Complete Heart Block
AbdelJalil Farhati1, Rihab Ben Othman1, Hela Msaad1
1University of Tunis El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia; Pediatric Cardiology Department, La Rabta Universitary Hospital of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.
Background:
Percutaneous closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects (pmVSDs) has markedly increased with the development of newer, softer occlusion devices.
Case Summary:
We report a 12-year-old girl who underwent percutaneous pmVSD closure. One week later, she was admitted for paroxysmal complete heart block (CHB). She was started on intravenous corticosteroids. A percutaneous retrieval of the device was performed successfully. Sinus rhythm was maintained throughout the 8-month follow-up period.
Discussion:
Paroxysmal CHB is a rare but serious complication following percutaneous pmVSD closure. Its management remains challenging because of the potential for recurrence despite medical therapy. To our knowledge, percutaneous retrieval of a well-positioned ventricular septal defect occluder in this context represents the first case reported in the literature.
Take-Home Messages:
Selecting the optimal device for pmVSD closure is crucial to ensure procedural success and reduce the risk of complications. CHB may occur immediately, early, or late after defect closure.
Related Concept Videos
Cardiomyopathy II: Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care
Dysrhythmias IV: Characteristics of Bradyarrhythmias
Dysrhythmias I: Introduction
Dysrhythmias VI: Management of Dysrhythmias
Dysrhythmias V: Evaluating Dysrhythmias
