OBJECTIVETo observe the outcome of patients with perimembranous ventricular septal defects (VSD) after transcatheter closure.

METHODSFollow up data were analyzed in 445 VSD patients [203 males, (14.2 +/- 6.8) years] underwent transcatheter closure (TCVSD) using Amplatzer occluder or homemade occluder in Fu Wai hospital from November 2002 to November 2007. Left ventriculography and ascending aorta angiography were performed before and after TCVSD. Routine follow-up including electrocardiogram, echocardiography and X-ray were made at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months post TCVSD and followed at 12 months interval thereafter.

RESULTSMean follow up time was 25.6 months. There was no death during follow up. Procedure was successful in 417 patients (93.7%) and complete closure within 5 years was achieved in 410 patients (98.3%). During follow up, 2 patients developed complete left bundle branch block and left ventricle enlargement. Complete atrioventricular block was evidenced in 3 patients and 2 patients requiring permanent pacemaker implantations. Newly occurred moderate-large aortic valve regurgitation was found in 2 patients. Newly developed moderate-large tricuspid valve regurgitation was found in 2 patients and moderate mitral valve regurgitation was found in 1 patient.

CONCLUSIONTranscatheter closure of perimembranous ventricular septal defects is effective though this procedure is also associated with limited complications.