Anthem Blue Cross Connecticut SURG.00123 Transmyocardial/Perventricular Device Closure of Ventricular Septal Defects Form

This document addresses the transmyocardial/perventricular device closure of ventricular septal defects (VSDs). Transmyocardial/perventricular device closure of a VSD approaches the defect by puncturing the wall of the right ventricle, rather than via a percutaneous approach. It has generally been performed as part of a combination “hybrid” procedure, which involves standard cardiac surgical techniques for correction of coexisting abnormalities, combined with a perventricular intervention for VSD closure. The technique has been investigated as an alternative to percutaneous transcatheter techniques combined with cardiac surgery, and it is for the repair of complex congenital cardiac defects that are not readily amenable to more established approaches.

Note: This document does not address the percutaneous transcatheter closure of ventricular septal defects.

Position Statement

Investigational and Not Medically Necessary:

Transmyocardial/perventricular device closure of ventricular septal defects is considered investigational and not medically necessary.