Role of Echocardiography in the Transcatheter Closure of Atrial Septal Defect

Abstract

Transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) is one of the most common structural cardiac interventions. Imaging the defect is the cornerstone of the procedure at different stages of the intervention. The imaging modalities most commonly used are transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography (TTE and TEE, respectively). Less commonly used are intracardiac echocardiogram and fusion navigation techniques. From the planning stage, a detailed anatomic and hemodynamic assessment of ASD is required for deciding suitability of device closure. Intraprocedural imaging guidance again is essential for a successful device deployment. Various assisted techniques like balloon assistance also require live TEE guidance. Confirming an acceptable device deployment is imaging dependent. Long-term follow-up of the patient for different parameters is done with the help of echocardiographic screening. A detailed understanding of echocardiographic imaging at different stages of the ASD device closure is the key for success.