What is the full form of ASD in heart disease?

ASD stands for Atrial Septal Defect, a congenital condition where there is an abnormal opening in the wall separating the two upper chambers of the heart.

Can atrial septal defect close on its own?

Yes. Small ASDs, particularly of the ostium secundum type, can close on their own during infancy or early childhood. Larger defects are unlikely to close without intervention and may require procedural repair.

What happens if ASD is left untreated?

An untreated ASD, particularly a large one, can lead to pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmias, right heart enlargement, and an increased risk of stroke. Adults with undiagnosed ASD often develop symptoms gradually over time.

Is ASD surgery safe for adults?

Yes. Both catheter-based closure and open-heart surgery are well established and considered safe for adults. Catheter-based repair, where applicable, offers a shorter recovery time and lower procedural risk.

What is the difference between ostium primum and ostium secundum ASD?

Ostium secundum is the most common type, occurring in the middle of the atrial septum and typically repairable via catheter. Ostium primum affects the lower portion of the septum, often occurs alongside other heart abnormalities, and requires open-heart surgery to repair.

How is ASD diagnosed?

ASD is diagnosed using one or more of the following: echocardiogram, chest X-ray, ECG, CT scan, or cardiac MRI. An echocardiogram is the most commonly used tool, as it provides a clear view of the heart’s structure and blood flow.

Can adults live a normal life with ASD?

Many adults with small, unrepaired ASDs live normal lives without significant symptoms. However, larger defects that go untreated can progressively affect heart and lung function. Early diagnosis and timely treatment significantly improve long-term outcomes.

What is the recovery time after ASD repair?

Recovery after catheter-based ASD closure is typically one to two weeks. Open-heart surgery for ASD repair generally requires a hospital stay of five to seven days and a full recovery period of six to eight weeks.

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About The Author

Dr. Ankur U. Phatarpekar M.D., D.M., FSCAI

With over 15 years of expertise, Dr. Phatarpekar is recognised as a renowned interventional cardiologist in Mumbai, specialising in complex coronary interventions, structural heart procedures, and pioneering work in TAVI (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation).

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