Double-patch repair of postinfarction ventricular septal defect.

We report 4 consecutive cases in which the double-patch technique was used to repair an inferior postinfarction ventricular septal rupture. The ventricular septal perforation was closed directly by stitching, with the same sutures, 2 autologous pericardial patches onto both sides of the affected septum, through only a left ventriculotomy. Complete closure of the defect was accomplished, and no residual shunt was observed in any patient. This technique appears to be useful in selected cases, such as ventricular septal perforation with myocardial infarction in the subacute or chronic phase, especially in instances of inferoposterior infarction. Further experience is needed to verify its safety and efficacy.