Abstract

PEIRONE, Alejandro et al. Blade Balloon Septostomy to Enlarge a Restrictive Atrial Septal Defect in Infants under 6 Months: Immediate and Medium-Term Outcomes. Rev. argent. cardiol. [online]. 2010, vol.78, n.3, pp.210-214. ISSN 1850-3748.

A nonrestrictive atrial septal defect is mandatory in order to maintain adequate arterial oxygen saturation and cardiac output in patients with complex congenital heart defects. We describe six patients under 6 months with severe cyanotic congenital heart defects in whom blade balloon septostomy was performed to enlarge a restrictive atrial septal defect. Immediate and medium-term outcomes are presented. The procedure was successful in all patients, producing a larger and long-lasting atrial septal defect and sustained clinical improvement. The use of intraprocedure echocardiography to guide and evaluate the results is highlighted. We consider that balloon septostomy is a safe and effective option to enlarge a restrictive ASD in carefully selected cases in infants less than 6 months old, with satisfactory outcomes. Echocardiography guidance is very important to warrant success of the procedure.

Keywords : Congenital Heart Defects; Atrial Septal Defects; Heart Septum; Blade Balloon.

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