Transcatheter Retrograde Device Closure of an Isolated Pulmonary Valve Stump Using a Deflectable Sheath Technique

Abstract

Patients with a single ventricular heart physiology may have a persistent egress through one of the semilunar valves that was surgically closed during the palliative operations. This semi lunar patency results in a blind ending pulmonary artery stump. Consequently, the patient is at risk for thrombus that can then result in a paradoxical embolic event and potentially an ischemic stroke. Patients therefore must undergo a reoperation to close the stump or remain on anticoagulation for lifetime. This report demonstrates the use of a retrograde arterial approach and a deflectable delivery sheath to obliterate the proximal pulmonary valve with a vascular device.