Transcatheter retrieval of Amplatzer Septal Occluder device embolized into the abdominal aorta

Abstract

The use of Amplatzer Septal Occluder device has become an alternative to surgical procedure in selected group of patients affected by atrial septal defect. Percutaneous closure of atrial septal defect has emerged as a low morbidity procedure but, at the same time, showed various complications associated to the device itself. Although embolization to the abdominal aorta is only sporadic reported, it could represent a potential vascular disaster and usually is treated by surgery. Herein, we report on the fourth, in English literature, successfully total transcatheter retrieval of an Amplatzer Septal Occluder device complicated by acute embolization into the abdominal aorta and propose a practical endovascular manoeuvre to address disc removal.