The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Aug 2020
Surgical explantation of atrial septal closure devices for refractory nickel allergy symptoms.
Systemic allergic reactions to nickel alloys in percutaneous atrial septal defect occlusion devices have a poorly defined natural history. We describe our experience of surgical removal of the offending device in a series of patients with nickel allergy and refractory symptoms. ⋯ Patients with nickel allergy and severe refractory symptoms after atrial septal defect device implantation experience profound resolution of symptoms and improved quality of life after removal. Nickel allergy should be considered before device insertion, and a low threshold should exist for surgical removal for refractory symptoms.
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Aug 2020
Visualization and quantification of the atrioventricular conduction axis in hearts with ventricular septal defect using phase contrast computed tomography.
To visualize and quantify the atrioventricular conduction axis in the setting of ventricular septal defect using phase contrast computed tomography. ⋯ We were able to show the precise location of the axis, with our findings suggesting that longitudinal sutures placed along the posteroinferior rim should be effective in avoiding iatrogenic injury, but sutures should not be placed in the valley between the limbs of the septomarginal trabeculation.