[Atrial septal defect in adults--opinions, procedures and controversies]

E Suchoń1, P Podolec, W Tracz

  • 1Klinika Chorób Serca i Naczyń Instytutu Kardiologii Collegium Medicum Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego w Krakowie KSS im. Jana Pawła II.

Przeglad Lekarski
|July 31, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common congenital heart defect in adults over 40. Improved understanding and transcatheter closure offer better treatment options for adult ASD patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Adult Congenital Heart Disease
  • Cardiac Malformations

Context:

  • Atrial septal defect (ASD) represents a significant portion of adult congenital heart disease.
  • It is the third most common congenital cardiac malformation in adults, following bicuspid aortic valve and mitral valve prolapse.
  • This condition is frequently diagnosed in adults over the age of 40.

Purpose:

  • To review the current understanding of the pathological role of ASD in adults.
  • To discuss existing controversies surrounding the treatment of adult ASD.
  • To highlight potential advancements in ASD management.

Summary:

  • ASD is a prevalent congenital heart issue in adults, often identified later in life.
  • The review covers the disease's impact on adult physiology and treatment debates.
  • Advances in diagnosing ASD and transcatheter closure techniques are noted.

Impact:

  • Enhanced comprehension of ASD pathophysiology is anticipated to refine treatment strategies.
  • Improved diagnostic tools will aid in earlier and more accurate detection.
  • Transcatheter closure presents a less invasive option, potentially improving patient outcomes for atrial septal defects.

Related Concept Videos

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management01:26

Mitral Stenosis III: Medical Management

Mitral stenosis, a condition marked by the narrowing of the mitral valve, necessitates an integrated approach for effective management. This approach includes preventative measures, medical therapy, and surgical interventions to reduce symptoms and prevent complications.PreventionPrevention of mitral stenosis primarily focuses on reducing the incidence of bacterial infections, particularly streptococcal infections, which can lead to rheumatic fever and subsequent valvular damage. Timely...
Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Aortic Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Aortic regurgitation (AR) is when the aortic valve does not close or seal properly, leading to backward blood circulation from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole. Common causes of AR include rheumatic heart disease, congenital valve defects, and aortic root dilation. Managing AR requires a multifaceted approach to alleviate symptoms, preserve left ventricular function, and address the underlying cause of the regurgitation. Patients with symptomatic AR or significant left...
Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests01:23

Mitral Stenosis II: Clinical features and Diagnostic Tests

Mitral stenosis is a heart condition in which the mitral valve, which allows blood to flow from the left atrium to the left ventricle, becomes narrowed or stenotic. This narrowing hinders blood flow and leads to clinical symptoms requiring specific medical evaluations and management strategies. The following overview outlines the clinical symptoms, assessments, diagnostic findings, prevention methods, and treatments for mitral stenosis.Clinical ManifestationsDyspnea (shortness of breath): This...
Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care01:29

Cardiomyopathy V: Interprofessional Care

Managing cardiomyopathy involves addressing underlying or precipitating causes, treating heart failure with medications, and implementing dietary changes and a balanced exercise and rest regimen.Lifestyle ModificationsCardiomyopathy patients should adopt a low-sodium diet to reduce fluid retention and manage heart failure. A personalized exercise and rest plan helps maintain physical fitness without overstraining the heart. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco is essential to prevent further damage to...
Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management01:25

Mitral Regurgitation III: Medical Management

Mitral regurgitation (MR) is characterized by retrograde blood circulation from the left ventricle into the left atrium due to inadequate mitral valve closure. The severity of the condition, symptoms, and underlying cause determine treatment strategies.Monitoring and Pharmacological TreatmentPatients with mild to moderate MR typically do not need immediate intervention but regular monitoring to assess progression and guide treatment. Patients with mild MR should have an echocardiogram every 3-5...
Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management01:22

Mitral Valve Prolapse II: Assessment and Management

IntroductionA range of clinical features characterizes Mitral Valve Prolapse (MVP), but it is important to note that many individuals with MVP are asymptomatic and may remain so throughout their lives. For those who do exhibit symptoms, the following are the key clinical features:Palpitations: This is a common symptom where individuals feel an irregular or rapid heartbeat. Palpitations in MVP are often due to arrhythmias such as premature ventricular contractions or supraventricular tachycardia.