Interventional atrioseptostomy by application of monopolar high-frequency alternating current : In vitro evaluation of a new device.

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES: The authors evaluate the use of a new device for interventional creation of atrial septal defects (ASD) working with high-frequency alternating current in an in vitro study with porcine atria. METHODS: The device consists of a symmetrical cage of six superelastic monofile wires, including a microthermistor that is placed via a catheter into a punctured hole in the porcine foramen ovale. The device is used as a differential electrode for monopolar, temperature-controlled application of high-frequency alternating current for thermal modelling of ASD. RESULTS: Application of current for 60 seconds caused temperature-dependent, sized ASDs. CONCLUSION: In vivo animal studies to evaluate possible side effects and long term patency of the ASDs are justified and warranted.