Late erosion of Amplatzer septal occluder device resulting in cardiac tamponade

Abstract

Transcatheter device closure of atrial septal defects (ASDs) is a minimally invasive technique that offers an alternative to conventional surgical repair. There are risks imposed by this technique; however, they compare favourably with risks of surgical closure. Here, we present a case of a 59-year old male with late erosion of an Amplatzer septal occluder device resulting in cardiac tamponade 5 years after device placement. To the best of our knowledge, cardiac tamponade this late after device placement has not yet been reported. Septal occlusion device erosion remains a major issue among the risks imposed by device closure of an ASD. More data are needed to better understand its true causes and possible solutions.