Atrial Septal Defect Closure

An Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition where there is a hole in the wall (septum) that divides the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria). This hole allows blood to flow between the left and right atrium, causing oxygen-rich blood to mix with oxygen-poor blood. Over time, this can strain the heart and lungs, leading to complications such as heart failure, stroke, and other serious health problems.

At Kurnool Cardiac Center, we specialize in treating Atrial Septal Defects (ASD) with advanced ASD closure techniques that restore normal heart function and improve overall health. Our experienced cardiologist, Dr. Nagendra Prasad Thota, utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and procedures to ensure optimal outcomes for our patients.

What is Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?

An Atrial Septal Defect is one of the most common congenital heart conditions, often present from birth. The size of the hole can vary from a small defect, which may not cause symptoms, to a larger hole, which can significantly affect heart function. Common symptoms of a significant ASD include:

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity
• Fatigue or tiredness
• Swelling of the legs, abdomen, or veins in the neck
• Frequent lung infections
• Heart palpitations

If left untreated, ASD can lead to complications such as pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in the lungs), arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), and an increased risk of stroke.

Atrial Septal Defect Closure: The Treatment

The main goal of ASD closure is to close the hole in the septum and restore normal blood flow between the atria. There are two primary methods for ASD closure:

Transcatheter (Percutaneous) Closure

This is a minimally invasive procedure where a device is used to close the hole in the heart. The procedure involves the following steps:

• A catheter (a thin, flexible tube) is inserted through a vein in the groin and guided to the heart.
• Once the catheter reaches the ASD, a special closure device is deployed to seal the hole.
• The device is typically made of a mesh-like material that expands to fit the size of the defect, gradually closing it off.
• This procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and sedation, requiring a shorter recovery time and leaving no external incisions.

Surgical Closure

In cases where the defect is too large or in a position that cannot be reached with a catheter, a traditional open-heart surgery may be necessary. The steps involved are:

• The patient is placed under general anesthesia.
• A surgical incision is made in the chest to access the heart.
• The surgeon will close the hole in the atrial septum using stitches or a patch.
• The heart is restarted after the procedure, and the incision is carefully closed.

Open-heart surgery is typically reserved for patients whose ASD cannot be closed using the catheter-based method or when there are other underlying complications.

Benefits of ASD Closure

The benefits of Atrial Septal Defect closure include:

• Restoration of Normal Heart Function: Closing the defect allows the heart to function more efficiently by preventing abnormal blood flow and reducing strain on the heart.
• Improved Quality of Life: After closure, patients often experience relief from symptoms such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and swelling, leading to an overall improvement in daily activities.
• Prevention of Complications: ASD closure significantly reduces the risk of developing complications such as arrhythmias, stroke, and pulmonary hypertension.
• Minimally Invasive Option: Transcatheter closure offers a minimally invasive solution, with faster recovery times, minimal scarring, and fewer complications compared to traditional surgery.

Why is ASD Closure Performed?

ASD closure is typically performed when a person has significant symptoms or risks associated with the defect. Reasons to undergo ASD closure include:

• Persistent Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, fatigue, or swelling that doesn’t improve with medication or lifestyle changes.
• Large Defect: When the hole is large enough to cause significant health issues, such as abnormal blood flow or strain on the heart.
• Prevention of Complications: To prevent long-term complications like heart failure, arrhythmias, or stroke.
• Worsening Pulmonary Hypertension: If the ASD is causing increased pressure in the lungs, which can damage the blood vessels and lead to other complications.

The Procedure: How is ASD Closure Performed?

Whether performed via catheter-based techniques or open-heart surgery, ASD closure is a highly specialized procedure designed to effectively treat the defect. Here’s an overview of the process:

• Preparation:

  • The patient is thoroughly evaluated, including diagnostic tests such as an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), and sometimes a CT scan or MRI to assess the size and location of the ASD.
  • For transcatheter closure, the patient will be sedated and local anesthesia will be administered. For open-heart surgery, general anesthesia will be used.

• Transcatheter Closure Procedure:

  • The catheter is inserted into a vein, usually in the groin, and guided through the blood vessels to the heart.
  • The closure device is deployed across the ASD, which will expand and seal the hole.
  • The catheter is removed, and the procedure is complete. Most patients can go home the same day or the following day.

• Surgical Closure:

  • A surgical incision is made to access the heart.
  • The surgeon will close the ASD using sutures or a patch, after which the chest is closed with stitches or staples.
  • The patient is monitored in the ICU for a few days before returning to normal activities.

Recovery and Aftercare

Post-procedure care depends on the type of closure performed:

• Transcatheter Closure:

  • Patients typically spend 1-2 days in the hospital for observation and recovery.
  • Most can resume normal activities within a few weeks.
  • Follow-up appointments are scheduled to ensure the closure device is in place and there are no complications.

• Surgical Closure:

  • Patients typically stay in the hospital for 4-5 days following surgery.
  • Recovery can take a few weeks, with gradual return to normal activities.
  • Lifelong follow-up with a cardiologist is recommended to monitor heart health.

Why Choose Kurnool Cardiac Center for ASD Closure?

At Kurnool Cardiac Center, we are dedicated to providing the highest quality care for heart patients, including those with Atrial Septal Defects. Under the expert guidance of Dr. Nagendra Prasad Thota, our patients benefit from:

• Comprehensive Diagnostic Care: Accurate diagnosis using advanced imaging techniques to understand the size, location, and impact of the ASD.
• Minimally Invasive Techniques: When appropriate, we offer transcatheter closure to minimize recovery time and discomfort.
• Expert Surgical Care: For patients requiring open-heart surgery, our skilled surgeons perform the procedure with precision and care.
• Personalized Treatment: We understand that each patient is unique, so we offer customized treatment plans tailored to your specific needs and medical history.
• Post-Procedure Support: Our team provides ongoing care, ensuring you recover smoothly and get back to a healthy and active lifestyle.