Percutaneous atrial septal defect (ASD) closure is a minimally invasive medical procedure used to treat atrial septal defects, a type of congenital heart defect. ASDs are openings in the atrial septum, the wall separating the two upper chambers of the heart (atria). These openings can lead to complications such as right heart enlargement, arrhythmias, and increased risk of stroke. Percutaneous ASD closure offers a less invasive alternative with good outcomes (for many patients) to open-heart surgery, which was traditionally used to correct this defect.
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and guided by echocardiography and fluoroscopy. It involves inserting a catheter through a vein, usually in the groin, and guiding it to the heart. Once the catheter reaches the defect, a device called an occluder is deployed. This occluder is specially designed to fit the size and shape of the defect. It expands to cover the opening in the atrial septum, effectively sealing it and allowing the heart tissue to eventually grow over the device, permanently closing the defect.
However, percutaneous ASD closure is not suitable for all patients. Factors such as the size and location of the defect, the presence of additional cardiac anomalies, and the patient's overall health can influence the decision between percutaneous closure and open-heart surgery. Before undergoing the procedure, patients typically undergo a thorough diagnostic evaluation, including an echocardiogram, to assess the defect and plan the intervention.