Discovering the Different Types of ASD: What You Need to Know

Updated at: 29 Jul 2023

Introduction

A cardiac closure device can help you restore your hearts health. If you have a hole in your heart that needs filling, an ASD closure is the solution. This surgical procedure will close up the opening in the upper part of your heart, ensuring your heart is in top form. An ASD closure device will keep blood flowing smoothly and prevent mixing in your hearts upper chambers.

What is Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?

When the muscular wall between the hearts upper chambers has a hole, it is called Atrial Septal Defect or ASD. This opening is essential during fetal development to allow blood flow to the lungs. Usually, it closes on its own shortly after birth. However, a larger hole may persist in some cases. It results in a Congenital Heart Defect called Atrial Septal Defect.

Thanks to advanced surgical technology, treating these holes is now easier.

What are the Different Types of ASD Closure Procedures?

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a procedure that is used to close the hearts hole to improve the hearts health.

When it comes to treating ASD, there are two procedures to consider. These are:

• Surgical procedure:

This is an open heart surgery, through which a skilled surgeon delicately stitches a tissue patch around the hole in the heart.

• Non-Surgical procedure

This less invasive repair method uses a catheter. A flexible catheter is used to implant a device into your blood vessel through a tiny incision in the groin. When the device reaches the hole, it opens and firmly closes it, providing relief without the need for open heart surgery.

What Are The Types of ASD Closure Devices?

ASD closure devices include:

• Amplatzer™ Septal Occluder

• Amplatzer™ PFO Occluder

• Amplatzer™ Cribriform

• Gore® Cardioform Septal Occluder

• Gore® Cardioform ASD Occluder (for larger ASDs)

• STARFlex® Septal Closure System

These innovative devices feature a nickel and titanium wire system coated with polyester. Some may even include platinum. Designed like heart valve devices, they consist of two circular discs connected by a narrow "waist" that effectively seals the hole in your heart wall.

Who should consider ASD closure?

If there is a small hole in the heart, treatment may not be necessary. Also, it will not create any issues. If the ASD is more significant, blood will leak into the wrong heart chambers. Then it will raise more complications with symptoms. Such as:

• Abnormal heart rhythm.

• Enlarged heart.

• Heart failure.

• High lung pressure.

• Shortness of breath and 

• stroke.

To prevent these complications, your healthcare provider may recommend ASD closure if you are at risk. They may also suggest the procedure if you are already undergoing surgery for another congenital heart defect.

ASD closure is often performed on young children to prevent future heart damage and complications.

Who Performs ASD Closure Surgery?

ASD closure surgery is typically performed by an interventional cardiologist, who has experience in all kinds of heart procedures.

What Happens After ASD Closure Surgery?

After the ASD is closed, the medical team will closely monitor your recovery and conduct x-rays of your heart to ensure the success of the procedure.

How Does ASD Closure Work?

ASD closure can be done through different techniques. It might entail open heart surgery or the least invasive cardiac catheterization treatment. A catheter is placed through a vein in your groin during this procedure. An adhesive patch, a closure device, or sutures can be used to close the hole.

Sutures, synthetic patches, closure devices, and other methods can all be used to close the hole. The cardiologist in Hyderabad will choose the optimal procedure based on your overall health, your underlying heart issues, the size and location of the hole, and other variables.

What is the Life Expectancy After ASD Closure?

Did you know ASD Closure Surgery can significantly impact your life expectancy? Research has shown that younger individuals who undergo this surgery have a similar life expectancy to their peers who have never had ASD. However, for older individuals, the story is different. Those who undergo ASD closure have a shorter life expectancy than their peers who have never had the procedure. It is fascinating to note that closing the gap caused by ASD can lead to a longer lifespan.

What is the Recovery Time after ASD Closure?

The cardiologist will provide you with all the information about your recovery process, depending on the kind of surgery you had.

• You can anticipate an overnight stay at the hospital after a catheter-based repair before being let go. You should be able to get back to your regular activities in a week, though it is crucial to rest for two weeks to ensure complete healing.

• On the other hand, recovery from ASD Closure requiring open-heart surgery takes longer. Therefore, you might need to cut back on your physical activity for a few weeks. To get the finest outcomes, giving your healing top priority is crucial.

After ASD Closure Treatment: When Should You Contact a Cardiologist?

After undergoing ASD closure treatment, it is essential to be aware of potential complications. Such as infection, heart problems, and stroke. If you notice any of the following signs, then consult with the top heart specialist in Hyderabad and seek immediate medical attention:

• Blood or pus coming from the incision site

• Chest pain

• Fainting

• Fever

• Pain that worsens or does not improve with medication

• Shortness of breath

• Irregular heart rhythm

Discover the Impact of ASD and the Best Solution with the Top Cardiologist in Hyderabad

No matter how severe your ASD is, it can have a profound effect on your life. Minor flaws might not be a concern right away, but they might later on become more noticeable. Currently, there is no medication that can effectively cure Atrial Septal defects (ASD). That is why ASD Closure Surgery may be necessary, depending on your condition.

To ensure the best outcome for those affected by ASD, early detection and treatment from leading hospitals are crucial. If you or your child are dealing with ASD, do not hesitate to contact Dr. Asif cardiologist. He is the best Cardiac surgeon in Hyderabad. He will guide you through the options and help you understand which treatment is right for your symptoms.