ASD Device Closure

An ASD device closure is a therapeutic procedure designed to address an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) - an unusually large hole present between the upper chambers of the heart that persists after birth. If left untreated, this condition can result in heart enlargement, abnormal heart rhythms, and potential damage to the lung's blood vessels.

The ASD (Atrial Septal Defect) device closure procedure utilizes a specialized device to effectively seal the hole. It employs a patch to cover it or utilizes sutures to close it. There are several techniques available for ASD closure. While some cases may necessitate open-heart surgery, others can be addressed through a minimally invasive method known as cardiac catheterisation. In this approach, a catheter is threaded from a vein in your groin up to your heart.

Turn to Dr. Karthigesan, a leading cardiac electrophysiologist, for his expertise in ASD device closure procedures. With his impressive track record and exceptional skill set, he can provide the expert care you need to navigate this health challenge. Entrust your heart to the best; choose Dr Karthigesan for your ASD device closure.

While all babies are born with a small hole that typically closes within a few weeks or months, some babies may have a larger opening that does not seal naturally.

If the hole is too small( called PFO), it may not cause any symptom during daily activity but occasional shunting of blood across the hole might cause brain stroke. Hence it is recommended to close the PFO with device in Cryptogenic stroke. The ASD can lead to blood leakage into inappropriate chambers of the heart. Over time, this condition forces the heart and lungs to work harder, potentially triggering a series of health complications and symptoms such as:

• Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia), including conditions like atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter.
• An enlarged heart.
• Risk of stroke.
• Heart failure.
• Shortness of breath.
• Elevated pressure in the lungs, leading to pulmonary hypertension.

ASD closure devices are not only used to prevent the above complications but also to avert strokes in individuals with a small ASD or patent foramen ovale (PFO). Similar to an ASD, a PFO allows blood to move in the wrong direction within the heart which can lead to stroke.

To fully understand your heart's condition and provide a detailed view of the ASD for an effective closure procedure, Dr Karthigesan may suggest you to undergo a series of diagnostic tests, including:

• A Chest X-ray, which provides insights into the structure of your heart.
• A Doppler Ultrasound to evaluate the flow of blood through your heart.
• An Echocardiogram, which presents a detailed picture of your heart's anatomy and blood circulation.
• An  Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your heart's rhythm.
• Transesophageal and transthoracic echocardiograms to gauge the size and location of the ASD and to determine the suitability of the procedure.

• The ASD closure procedure can be performed either through open-heart surgery by surgeons or by cardiologists using a catheter.
• During a transcatheter ASD device closure procedure, a slim, flexible tube (catheter) is inserted into a blood vessel, generally in the groin area.
• Using advanced imaging techniques, the catheter is carefully guided to the heart.
• A mesh patch or plug is then transported through the catheter to effectively seal the hole.
• Initially, the natural pressure within the heart secures the device in place. Over time, the heart's normal tissue grows over the implant, leading to the permanent closure of the hole.
• If the ASD is exceptionally large or situated too close to the heart's wall, device use may not be a safe option. In such cases, heart surgery becomes necessary.