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What is Atrial septal defect (ASD)?

A congenital heart defect is a structural issue in the heart that exists from birth and is known as an atrial septal defect (ASD). The septum, a hole in the wall, separates the heart's upper chambers, or atria. The hole size may vary, and surgery may be necessary, or it may heal itself.

Several holes in the wall separate the heart's upper chambers (atria) as the fetus's heart grows. Usually, these apertures seal during pregnancy or soon after delivery. An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole that persists if one of these apertures does not close.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

For atrial septal defects (ASD), timely intervention is essential to avoid consequences such as pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, and stroke. Early management reduces the chance of arrhythmias and helps restore normal blood flow, which eases the load on the heart and lungs.

Additionally, it alleviates symptoms, including exhaustion and dyspnea, enhancing the general quality of life.

Early intervention for ASD, particularly in childhood, can improve long-term health outcomes and lessen the need for later, more involved treatments.

What are the Common Symptoms of Atrial septal defect (ASD)?

An atrial septal defect (ASD) may not cause symptoms in a newborn. Adulthood may be when symptoms first appear. Symptoms of an atrial septal defect might include:

  • Breathlessness, particularly during physical activity.
  • Fatigue, particularly after exerting oneself.
  • Swelling in the abdomen, legs, or feet.
  • Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats.
  • Palpitations are skipped heartbeats or sensations of a rapid, fluttering, or pounding heartbeat.

Types of Atrial septal defect (ASD)

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) come in the following types:

  • Secundum: The most prevalent kind of ASD is this one. It occurs between the upper heart chambers in the centre of the wall.
  • Primum: This kind of ASD impacts the lower portion of the wall between the upper heart chambers. It may happen in conjunction with other congenital cardiac issues.
  • Sinus venosus: This kind of ASD is uncommon. The top portion of the wall between the heart chambers is where it most frequently occurs. It often happens in conjunction with other congenital defects in the heart's structure.
  • Coronary sinus: The heart's vascular system includes the coronary sinus. A portion of the wall separating the left upper chamber of the heart from the coronary sinus is absent in this uncommon form of ASD.

Atrial septal defect and pregnancy

First, consult a healthcare provider if you have an atrial septal defect and are pregnant or considering getting pregnant.

Getting the proper prenatal care is essential. Before becoming pregnant, a medical expert might advise fixing the heart hole.

A high-risk pregnancy may result from a significant atrial septal defect or its consequences.

Causes, Risk Factors and Complications of Atrial septal defect (ASD)

Causes

It's unclear what causes atrial septal defects. The issue impacts the heart's structure. It occurs during pregnancy when the baby's heart is developing.

The following factors may cause congenital cardiac defects like atrial septal defects:

  • Genetic alterations.
  • Certain health issues.
  • Certain medications.
  • Smoking.
  • Abuse of alcohol

Risk Factors

The following conditions can raise a baby's chance of an atrial septal defect or other birth-related cardiac issues:

  • German measles, often known as rubella, in the first few months of pregnancy.
  • Diabetes.
  • Lupus.
  • Use of tobacco or alcohol when pregnant.
  • Use of cocaine when pregnant.
  • Use of some medications, such as those for mood disorders and seizures, during pregnancy.

Specific congenital cardiac abnormalities run in families. They are inherited as a result.

Complications

Serious adverse effects from larger atrial septal abnormalities include right-sided cardiac failure:

  • Arrhythmias are irregular heartbeats
  • Stroke
  • Early demise
  • Pulmonary hypertension is elevated blood pressure in the lungs' arteries.
  • Permanent lung damage might result from pulmonary hypertension.

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Atrial septal defect (ASD)

  • The most recent advancements in technology and research for treating atrial septal defects (ASDs) emphasise enhanced devices, sophisticated procedural methods, and a multidisciplinary team approach.
  • Notable devices include the Amplatzer Septal Occluder, which is made of nitinol and is used to seal conventional ASDs, and the Gore Cardioform ASD Occluder, which was approved by the FDA in 2019 and can shut ASDs up to 35 mm in diameter. For ASDs with many symptoms, the Amplatzer Cribriform Occluder was created.
  • For more complicated situations, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) is utilised. However, procedural methods such as transcatheter closure provide a less invasive option.
  • Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) and pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are also used in a multidisciplinary team approach to evaluate patient appropriateness.
  • These developments seek to enhance ASD patients' functional status, quality of life, and symptom alleviation.

Atrial septal defect (ASD) Prevention Tips

Prevention may not be feasible due to the unclear origin of atrial septal defect (ASD). However, receiving quality prenatal care is essential. Before getting pregnant, schedule a health examination if you were born with an ASD.

During this visit:

  • Discuss current medical problems and medications
  • Examine the medical history of your family.
  • Inquire about getting tested for rubella (German measles).

Treatment options for Atrial septal defect (ASD)

Catheter-based repair: This kind is used to correct atrial septal defects of the secundum kind. A catheter is a thin, flexible tube that is inserted into a blood vessel, usually the groin. After that, the tube is led to the heart. The catheter is filled with a mesh patch or stopper. The hole is sealed with the patch. The hole is permanently sealed by the heart tissue growth surrounding the patch.


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Open-heart surgery: To reach the heart during this ASD repair surgery, an incision must be made through the chest wall. To seal the opening, the surgeons apply patches. Primum, sinus venosus, and coronary sinus atrial abnormalities can only be corrected by open-heart repair surgery.

  • Clinical Assessment
    • Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG): An EKG test is a quick and straightforward method to determine whether you have a cardiac condition.
  • Imaging Tests
    • Echocardiogram: An ultrasound examination called an echocardiography examines the anatomy and physiology of your heart.
    • Computed tomography (CT): An imaging test called a CT (computed tomography) scan aids medical professionals in identifying illnesses and wounds.
    • Chest X-ray: An X-ray of the chest reveals the state of the heart and lungs.
    • Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This test produces still or moving images of the heart's blood flow. Most frequently, it is carried out to identify the etiology of ventricular fibrillation or tachycardia.
    • Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE): This test demonstrates the effects of ASD-induced left-to-right blood shunting on the heart. Additionally, it can display information on pulmonary hypertension.
    • Intracardiac echocardiography (ICE): This ultrasound was performed inside your heart. Through a peripheral vein, a tiny camera known as an echo probe is delivered to your heart. The ASD's dimensions, shape, and blood flow direction are all displayed by this test. It is frequently utilised in percutaneous (nonsurgical) ASD repair.
    • Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE): An ultrasonography that passes through your oesophagus is called a TEE. It displays an ASD's dimensions, form, and position. Additionally, it can examine your heart valves. TEE is frequently utilised in percutaneous repair and ASD surgery.

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) rehabilitation options include:

  • Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs: Organized initiatives that promote cardiac rehabilitation through therapy, education, and exercise.
  • Exercise and Physical Activity: Exercise regimens under supervision to enhance endurance and cardiovascular health.
  • Lifestyle Modifications: Promoting heart-healthy behaviours such as weight control, quitting smoking, and dietary adjustments.

Atrial septal defects (ASDs) cannot be fixed by medication. However, they can lessen symptoms. Atrial septal defect medications may include:

  • Beta-blockers for heartbeat regulation.
  • Anticoagulants are blood thinners that reduce the risk of blood clots.
  • Diuretics to alleviate the accumulation of fluid in the body, including the lungs.

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Hospitals for Atrial septal defect (ASD) in India

Clear Medi Hospital, Karkardooma: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Clear Medi Hospital, Karkardooma

Delhi, India

Clear Medi Hospital, Karkardooma located in New Delhi, India is accredited by ISO. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • There are 12 Linear Accelerators in all hospitals of Clear Medi Hospital, Delhi, India and more in the development stage.
  • Over 25 surgical and medical specialties across all Clear Medi Hospitals
  • Care Medi is one of the biggest Oncology care organisations in India.
  • Hospital management solutions provided to over 15 partner healthcare organisations managing more than 300 beds.
  • The organisation consists of offerings such as clinical manpower management and equipment management.
  • Advanced radiology and nuclear medicine centres
  • Professionally managed international patient care
  • Clear Medi Hospital, Delhi has a capacity of 100 beds.
  • Clear Medi is a multispecialty hospital.
  • It is a NABH (National Accreditation Board for Hospitals & Healthcare providers) certified hospital.
  • It has Oncology and Cardiac departments with an Intensive Care Unit.
  • It also has fully equipped Operation Theatres.
  • Clear Medi Hospital ensures coordination with patients and International Patient assistance
  • It has an online Tumor Board with a number of Medical, Surgical and Radiation Oncologists.
VPS Rockland Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
VPS Rockland Hospital

Gurgaon, India

VPS Rockland Hospital located in Gurugram, India is accredited by NABH, NABL. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Well-designed compact 103-bed hospital expanding over120,000 square feet
  • Well equipped modular operation theatres, intensive care unit, interventional Cath lab, and in-patient rooms ranging from economy to luxury
  • Offers a bouquet of services like Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Surgery, Pediatrics
  • High-end diagnostic services like 1.5 T MRI and 128 slice CT Scan
  • Advanced non-invasive assessment with echo & TMT machines
  • State of the art cardiac Cath-Lab
  • Appointment Scheduling
  • Treatment packages
  • Accommodation arrangement for the accompanying attendant
  • Customized diet for patient and attendant
  • Laundry services
  • Prayer room
  • Visa assistance
  • Pick and drop facility from/to the Airport
  • Foreign exchange facility
  • Registration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office
  • Dedicated Neuro-Intensive care unit managed by expert intensivists
  • Accommodation arrangements post discharge
  • Highly advanced instruments for deep brain stimulation, stereotaxy, micro-neurosurgery, pediatric neurosurgery & neurophysiology
  • Most advanced dialysis machines and advanced diagnostic and therapeutic facilities
  • Renal replacement therapy for hemo-dynamically unstable patient
  • Technologically advanced endoscopy suite
  • Wi-Fi/internet service in the room
  • Travel arrangement for patient & attendant post discharge
  • Tele-consults post discharge
  • Dialysis beds
  • 24x7 ‘Trauma & Emergency Center
  • Dedicated blood bank
  • 24x7 comprehensive patient care.
  • Deployed high-end technologies & smart digital system
  • Robust Hospital Information Systems to meet complex medical needs of patients
  • Robotic-assisted surgeries
  • International Patients Lounge
The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology: Top Doctors, and Reviews
The Madras Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology

Chennai, India

MIOT started its journey with only 70 beds and focusing on Orthopedics and Trauma care. However, we grew into a multi-specialty hospital with time. MIOT is now a 1000-bedded hospital and can offer an extensive range of services across 63 specialties. The state of art laboratory of our hospital is ranked 8th internationally. We have 21 super-specialty operation theaters equipped with cutting-edge technology to help our doctors with complex procedures.

We take great care to make our patient rooms comfortable enough. The patient rooms get plenty of fresh air as well as natural light. The soothing views from the rooms do not let the patients feel cut off from the outside world. We use separate entrances for emergency patients, out-patients, in-patients, and their attendants. We put our patients’ safety first which is why we use a superior air system to ensure a near-zero infection healthy environment.

Apart from that, MIOT’s 24 hours blood bank provides all kinds of blood work related services which include blood collection to component separation. This state-of-art blood bank alone handles more than 30,000 units of blood over the course of a year. Every month around 600 blood transfusions are managed by this blood bank.

MIOT’s SIGNA Pioneer 3T MRI machine is made with noise reduction technology. This silent MRI machine can deliver superior quality neuroimages without wasting any time. The department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences can give tough competition to any international hospital with its advanced technology and accuracy.

The PET CT service at MIOT International is the first of its kind in South India enabling better and more accurate diagnosis than earlier. The superior diagnosis is also possible for the two digital cath labs at MIOT Heart Revive center.

We also have a physiotherapy team where a team of highly efficient physiotherapists deals with the mobility and functional disability issues of our patients. They listen to the patients carefully to identify the root of the pain and use therapeutic exercises to reduce their pain.

The CCU of MIOT is something to be proud of. The specially-trained staff of this unit is dedicated to ensuring top-quality medical support to serious patients. This unit along with the MIOT International Laboratory is the backbone of our facility.

Furthermore, what makes MIOT unique is our Telemedicine service. In the new normal, we are trying everything to reach our patients. Our one of its kind Telemedicine service connects our patients to our 250 full-time doctors over email, phone, chat and video consultations.

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Why Choose India for Ventricular Tachycardia Treatment?

India was chosen for the following reasons:

  • Due to improvements in healthcare facilities, like less invasive surgical methods.
  • JCI, NABH-accredited healthcare facilities, and highly skilled physicians are examples of world-class specialists.
  • Treatment in Indian hospitals is more affordable than in other nations.
  • International patient services, including a language support system, are offered by Indian hospitals.
  • Enhanced therapeutic approaches and biological treatments

Frequently Asked Questions

The magnitude of the ASD and whether you get ASD repair are two factors affecting life expectancy. Repair time is also essential. People with ASD heal early in life and have a better expectancy, according to research. This is probably because quick treatment identifies the issue before it can seriously harm your heart or lungs.

India is a popular destination for complex heart surgeries because of its highly skilled surgeons, modern technology, and early diagnosis. Atrial septal defect (ASD) closure surgery has a very high success rate in India, with many hospitals reporting success rates exceeding 95%.

Yes, many individuals with ASD do not exhibit any symptoms, and they might not receive a diagnosis until they are adults.

Most people with ASD can have normal lives free from chronic cardiac issues if they receive timely treatment. Untreated ASDs, however, may result in more severe health problems.

Not all the time. Many persons with mild or asymptomatic ASDs can be closely watched and may not need surgery. Surgery or a catheter technique is frequently required to close larger ASDs or those that are producing symptoms.

The extent of the problem and whether it produces symptoms determine the course of treatment. While some ASDs are addressed in infancy or childhood, others may be tracked into maturity.

Most of the time, people with ASD can live an active life. However, until treatment is administered, people with significant problems or symptoms might need to limit their rigorous activities.

Over time, problems from an ASD can include heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, or pulmonary hypertension if treatment is not received.

While other flaws, such as ventricular septal defects (VSD), involve holes between the heart's ventricles or other structural problems, ASD refers explicitly to a hole between the heart's atria.