Interventions in Congenital Heart Disease: A Review of Recent Developments: Part I

Abstract

Percutaneous alternatives for treatment and palliation of congenital cardiac lesions traditionally within the realm of surgery have taken prominence over the last decade. As such the interventional cardiac catheterization laboratory has become an important component of the treatment strategies in the management of children and adults with congenital heart defects. This article is the first of a two-part review of recent developments in congenital cardiac interventions, including transcatheter heart valve technology for the native right ventricular outflow tract; novel fenestrated atrial devices for pulmonary arterial hypertension; and innovative techniques such as transcatheter closure of the sinus venosus atrial septal defect and lymphatic occlusion for plastic bronchitis and protein losing enteropathy. We provide an update on outcomes for these interventions and a reflection on existing challenges and opportunities.