Cardiac catheterization using a VSD closure device is a procedure to close a hole (ventricular septal defect or VSD) in the wall (septum) that separates the heart’s left and right ventricles (pumping chambers). This hole causes the heart to work harder and pump more blood than normal. Eventually, it can work so hard that it starts to fail (congestive heart failure).
VSD is a heart defect most often present at birth (congenital) or may develop from a serious heart attack.
An implant consists of two connected patches, like a clam shell, that are permanently placed in the hole through a thin, flexible tube (catheter). Over time, the lining of the heart wall grows over the patch and seals the hole completely.
Cardiac Partners has a large and renowned team of physicians who offer world class cardiac care and have extensive experience performing cardiac catheterization with VSD closure device.
Understanding the procedure
A Cardiac Partners interventional cardiologist inserts a long thin hollow flexible tube (catheter) in a blood vessel that leads to the heart in the inner thigh. Using an X-ray camera, the doctor then guides the catheter into the heart and performs several tests to measure the size of the hole, and to check that there are no other defects in the heart.
To repair the hole, the doctor moves a small mesh device through the catheter to the site of the defect. The device is designed to flatten against the septum on both sides to close and permanently seal the hole. It will stay in the heart permanently. The catheter is then removed.
This procedure may be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning no hospital stay required, or may involve an overnight stay.