Iatrogenic Atrial Septal Defect Closure Through the Steerable Guide Catheter: Description of Technique and Single-Center Experience

Objectives: To introduce a novel method of direct iatrogenic atrial septal defect (iASD) closure through the MitraClip steerable guide catheter (SGC).

Background: MitraClip implantation requires transseptal puncture and the creation of an iASD. There are relatively rare instances, such as hemodynamically significant shunting or concerns for embolus, where iASD must be closed during index procedure. In these instances, it may be beneficial to not give up access to left atrium.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed all iASD closures during MitraClip implantation at our institution from 2015 to 2020. Cases where an ASD occluder was deployed directly through SGC were included.

Results: Eleven patients had immediate iASD closure through the SGC. Indications for using this method included concern for paradoxical embolus, large defect size and/or significant shunting. Closure device sizes ranged from 8 to 22 mm. Mean time from removal of clip delivery system to occlusion of iASD was 14.6 minutes. There were no procedural complications related to iASD closure using this method.

Conclusion: Closure of iASD intra-procedurally directly through transseptal guide sheath via the method described was safe and allowed for continuous left atrium access.