Transseptal puncture: procedural guidance, challenging situations and complications management.

A number of interventional procedures based on the transseptal puncture (TSP) have been developed over the last years. The increasing number of interventional procedures, as well as the use of large-bore sheaths and complex devices, has led to improvements in technique and equipment. The combined use of fluoroscopy and of trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE) has increased safety and precision. However, TSP still represents a tricky procedure, it may become even more difficult in case of challenging interatrial septa and life-threatening complications may occur. Consequently, a deep knowledge of procedural steps, equipment, echocardiographic views, fossa ovalis anatomy and most frequent complications management are critical to perform successful TSP.