Comparison study between transcatheter closure and surgical repair in over 50-year old patients with secundum atrial septal defect / 中华胸心血管外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective: The aim of this study is to compare the clinical data and result between transcatheter closure and surgical repair for the treatments of secundum ASD in patients above 50 years old, and explore the indications for these two methods. Methods: From January 1998 to December 2003, 53 patients with surgical repair and 42 patients with transcatheter closure were enlisted according to the diagnosis of ASD. The ages of all of cases were above 50 years old. The interventional approach was administrated with Amplatzer device. The surgical approach mended the defect directly or with autologous pericardium. These patients were followed up by echocardiography (Echo). The clinical data including the diameter of the right ventricle (RVD), the pulmonic flow velocity, the pulmonary pressure and the tricuspid valve regurgitation. Results: In surgery group, surgical mortality was 1 9% (1/53). Cerebral embolism occurred in 4 (7 5%) patients. Pericardial effusion and other complications occurred in 24.5%. All 42 patients with ASD were effectively closed with Amplatzer occlude. One occluder displaced and moved into pulmonary artery on the fourth day after the treatment. The short term effective rate was 97 6% in transcatheter closure group. The diameter of ASD showed by Echo was significantly less in patients treated with transcatheter closure than that in surgical repair group. The hospitalization time was significantly less in patients treated with transcatheter closure. The follow up data recorded decreased load of right ventricle, the decreased diameter of right ventricle as well as the relief of pulmonary artery hypertension. Conclusion: The data suggested that of surgical approach of ASD has a wider indication for patients in different stages of the disease, whereas surgical morbidity may increase in elderly patients due to their pre existed diseases. However, the transcatheter closure for ASD is feasible for patients with smaller defects.