Allergic reaction to nitinol is rarely reported, and its incidence, symptoms, and course have not been clearly defined. We report an occurrence of severe progressive generalized exanthema 3 days after the implantation of an Amplatzer occluder for a patent foramen ovale, with symptoms disappearing immediately after surgical removal of the device 3 months later.
The risks and possible prevention of allergic reaction to nickel and especially to titanium are discussed. (C) 2013 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons