Septal Defects

Septal defects are congenital heart conditions with an abnormal opening in the septum, the wall that divides the heart’s chambers. These defects can occur between the atria between the ventricles, allowing blood to flow between the chambers. This abnormal blood flow can disrupt the heart’s normal function and potentially lead to complications like heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

Why should you choose Aster’s Cardiac Surgeon?

​​Aster Hospitals is an excellent choice for treating septal defects due to its world-class team of highly skilled cardiac surgeons and specialists. Our experts, trained in leading international institutions, have extensive experience in performing complex procedures like septal defect closures using advanced techniques such as cardiac catheterization and open-heart surgery. 

Causes of Septal Defects

• Septal defects generally occur during fetal development when the heart is forming. The exact cause is often unknown but may involve:
• Genetic Factors: Inherited conditions like Down syndrome or Turner syndrome may increase the risk of septal defects.
• Environmental Factors: Exposure to toxins, certain infections, or medications during pregnancy may disrupt normal heart development.
• Maternal Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or smoking during pregnancy.

Types of Septal Defects

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD):

• A hole in the wall between the two atria, which allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to flow into the right atrium.
• This can cause the right side of the heart to work harder and lead to pulmonary issues.

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD):

• A hole in the wall between the two ventricles, allowing oxygen-rich blood to mix with oxygen-poor blood.

Symptoms

• Small defects: May cause no noticeable symptoms and are often found incidentally.
• Larger defects: Can lead to more noticeable symptoms such as:
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Frequent respiratory infections
• Poor growth (in infants)
• Swelling in the legs or abdomen

Treatment for Septal Defects

• Observation: Small ASDs and VSDs may not require immediate treatment and may close on their own as the child grows.
• Medications: To manage symptoms like heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, or arrhythmias
• ASD Closure: May be closed using a device inserted via a catheter.
• VSD Repair: Often involves patching the defect through open surgery.