Percutaneous closure of a secundum atrial septal defect in elderly patients.

Secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) is the most common congenital defect that is initially diagnosed in adult and even in elderly patients. Modern transcatheter technology enables nonsurgical correction of this defect. Previously published studies describe clinical and hemodynamic aspects of ASDs in adults as well as the efficacy and safety of transcatheter ASD closure in this age group. The focus of attention in these studies was on elderly patients (>/= 60 years of age) who underwent transcatheter ASD closure. Elderly ASD patients frequently appeared with hemodynamic abnormalities (pulmonary hypertension, right ventricular failure, etc.) and concomitant pathology. There are limited published data available on the recommended management of ASD in elderly patients. Because of increasing longevity, this has become a persistent issue. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and outcome of percutaneous ASD closure in elderly patients (> 60 years of age).