ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION The Amplatzer® septal occluder (ASO) device was designed by Dr Kurt Amplatz to overcome the limitations of the devices previously used to close atrial septal defects (ASDs). Those devices had a high incidence of residual shunts; structural failures due to fractures of their frames; inability to easily retrieve them, and the need for large delivery systems rendering their use in children limited. The ASO has become the most desirable device that can be used in both adults and children. It possesses certain characteristics that make it an ideal device for closure of ASDs including its user-friendly delivery system; high complete closure rate; small delivery system, and the ability to retrieve or reposition the device prior to its release from the delivery cable.
