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Ostium secundum atrial septal defect in the elderly
F Landi1, L Cipriani, A Cocchi
1Department of Geriatrics, Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy.
Journal of the American Geriatrics Society
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a common congenital heart issue. This study highlights rare cases of elderly patients with significant ASDs, emphasizing careful consideration for surgical intervention in older individuals.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
- Geriatric Medicine
Background:
- Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a prevalent congenital cardiac anomaly.
- Significant ASDs can lead to shortened life expectancy and congestive heart failure.
- Progression to heart failure is linked to pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmias, and other cardiovascular issues.
Observation:
- This report details three unique cases of elderly individuals with substantial ASDs.
- These patients experienced a late onset of symptoms, defying typical disease progression.
- Their advanced age presented unique challenges for potential interventions.
Findings:
- Significant ASDs can remain asymptomatic until advanced age.
- Elderly patients with ASDs present a complex clinical scenario.
- Late diagnosis and intervention in ASD require careful consideration.
Implications:
- The findings suggest a need to reconsider diagnostic and treatment paradigms for ASD in the elderly.
- Surgical closure risks and outcomes in older adults necessitate individualized assessment.
- Further research is warranted to understand long-term management strategies for geriatric ASD patients.