A modified closure technique for postinfarction ventricular septal defect via a right ventricular incision

Abstract

Postinfarction ventricular septal defect has been a challenge to cardiac surgeons. Recently, a number of reports have recommended ventricular septal defect closure through the right ventricle. However, when inferior myocardial infarction widely extends to the left ventricle, it is necessary to modify a patch-closure technique due to extensive fragile necrotic myocardium. We describe a simplified surgical technique via a right ventricular incision.