Use of an Amplatzer vascular occluding device to close a synthetic Blalock-Taussig shunt in an infant.

We describe our experience with the closure of a synthetic Blalock-Taussig shunt using an Amplatzer vascular occluding device placed with the aid an exteriorised guidewire loop in an infant with congenital cardiac disease. The technique used in a neonate and the physiological benefits of this approach are discussed. We highlight the extended use of the Amplatzer vascular plug in this clinical setting and the advantages of using and the exteriorised guidewire loop for its placement.