Closure of External Tunnel Fontan Fenestration: a Novel Use of the Amplatzer Vascular Plug

Background: Newer modifications of the Fontan operation include the external tunnel conduit with placement of an elongated type of fenestration. Atrial septal defect closure devices used traditionally to close fenestrations have short connecting waists with retention discs on each side. These may not be suitable for this type of Fontan fenestration. The length of the fenestration may not allow proper expansion of the retention discs on these devices. The Amplatzer vascular plug, a new occlusion device without a centering waist or retention discs designed to close vascular malformation, can be placed entirely within an elongated tube or vessel.

Methods: A retrospective review was used to study patients who underwent catheter closure of Fontan fenestration in our institution. Only patients whose procedure was performed after the commercial release of the Amplatzer vascular plug were included in the study.

Results: The vascular plug was implanted in 4 of 10 patients who underwent fenestration closure. The plug was successfully placed in all four patients without protrusion into either the systemic or pulmonary venous side of the baffle. There were no incidences of embolization, hemolysis, or infective endocarditis. All the patients experienced significant improvement in oxygen saturation. The technical aspects of this device are discussed as well as its safe and effective use. The satisfactory follow-up evaluation also is reported.

Conclusions: This study outlines a novel use of the Amplatzer vascular plug for successful closure of selected Fontan fenestrations.