Use of the MemoSorb bioresorbable PFO device in an 11-year-old diver with phospholamban mutation and family hypertrophic cardiomyopathy

Abstract We report biodegradable device implantation for primary prevention in an asymptomatic 11-year-old boy with a patent foramen ovale, normal biventricular function and phospholamban mutation, conferring an elevated future risk of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. He was a keen diver, with ambitions to be a marine biologist. Following multidisciplinary discussion, closure of the defect was agreed, using a bioresorbable device to optimize future transseptal intervention for potential cardiomyopathy. A 34 mm Memosorb® PFO Occluder (Lepu medical Technology, Beijing, China) was positioned, complicated by complete atrioventricular block, regressing to first degree after removing the device. A 28mm device was then successfully implanted. Intermittent 2nd degree atrioventricular block occurred post-procedurally, treated with steroids, with normal holter ECG few weeks later. Bubble test echocardiography was negative after 6 months. The patient was allowed to dive again. The Memosorb ® biodegradable device can be implanted in selected cases. More studies are needed to confirm safety and efficacy.