How is an ASD treated?
Treatment of an ASD depends on the type and size of the defect, its effect on
the heart, and the presence of any other related conditions, such as pulmonary
hypertension, valve disease or coronary artery disease. The size of the defect
correlates with the degree of shunting—the more shunting, the greater the risk
of long-term complications such as atrial fibrillation and pulmonary
hypertension. The degree of shunting is determined by echocardiography, MRI or
oxygen saturations measured during catheterization. The degree of right-heart
enlargement, as measured by echocardiography or MRI, usually correlates with the
degree of shunting.
ASD Repair
Surgical Repair Surgical
repair may be needed for large secundum ASDs and other types of ASDs. Surgical
repair usually is performed using a tissue patch, preferably from the patient’s
own pericardium (the membrane aorund the heart). Some secundum ASDs can be
surgically closed with sutures alone.
Follow-Up Care
The patient usually returns to the cardiologist 3, 6 and 12 months after a
procedure for a follow-up physical exam and echocardiogram, and once a year
thereafter. After a secundum ASD is repaired, most people can return to their
regular activities without any activity restrictions (other than those
associated with all heart catheterizations). Patients usually take a blood
thinner for six months to a year after the repair to prevent blood clots and
help the healing process. Patients who have had a stroke may need to take blood
thinners indefinitely, and those with other heart problems, such as coronary
artery disease or pulmonary hypertension, may need to take additional
medication.
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