Septal Closure Procedure (Closing Hole In Hearts)

To comprehend septal problems, we must first understand the underlying structure of the human heart. The human heart is divided into four chambers: the right and left upper chambers, known as the "atrium," and the right and left lower chambers, known as the "ventricle." The right and left compartments are separated by a "septum" wall. The left side of the heart is dedicated to pumping blood to the body, while the right side is dedicated to pumping blood to the lungs. A septal defect is a hole in the septum that allows blood to flow from the left to the right chambers. Atrial septal defect (ASD) and ventricular septal defect (VSD) are the two forms (VSD).

Many children are born with a small hole between their atria, which closes within a few weeks. The disorder is known as atrial septal defect if it fails to close.

There is no opening between the ventricles in normal situations. Ventricular septal defect is the presence of a hole between the ventricles. One of the most frequent congenital cardiac abnormalities is this. The reason is unknown in most children, however genetic factors may play a role in some situations.

If the VSD is large, the high pressure from the left side of the heart is passed to the right, causing increased pressure in the pulmonary (lung) arteries, which can be irreversible if the VSD is not closed at a young age. Doctors may recommend that these defects be closed with a device or, if that is not possible, surgical closure.

What indications and symptoms should you be aware of?

The following symptoms may be present in patients with ASD or VSD:

• Weakness/fatigability Shortness of breath Respiratory (chest) illnesses on a regular basis
• heart beat that is not regular (diagnosed by your doctor)
• Aside from the heart murmur, patients with mild VSD/ ASD normally have no symptoms. They must be monitored on a regular basis.

What is the treatment for an atrial or ventricular septal defect?

• A catheter-based technique that is non-surgical and less intrusive.
• Surgical procedure

Your doctor will choose which technique is ideal for you based on your symptoms, age, general health, and the severity of the abnormality.

If the defect cannot be addressed using a catheter-based approach, surgery is used.

There are two options:

• Utilizing patches or using stitches. In the first instance, your doctor will close the gap using a specific patch. A patch of cloth or pericardium is usually used. To close the hole in the septum, the patch is sewed on. This patch is covered by the heart's normal lining tissue and becomes a permanent part of the heart.
• Catheter intervention: In most cases, this procedure has replaced surgery. The device is placed through the groin to seal the defect under local anaesthetic. Because this technique does not involve a cut (incision) in the chest wall, the recovery time is usually shorter.

During a catheter-based closure procedure, what happens?

• Before the procedure, you will be requested to undergo a series of tests, including a chest x-ray, an electrocardiogram, and blood tests to determine the patient's overall health as well as kidney function.
• This technique allows the use of a catheter, which is a flexible tube that contains a microscopic gadget that is commonly shaped like an umbrella.
• During the procedure, the patient is usually given local anaesthetic. Children are given general anaesthesia.
• Your doctor will check the pressure and oxygen levels in your heart, as well as the size of the opening.
• During the procedure, your doctor will check the pressure and oxygen levels in your heart, as well as the size of the opening.
• From the groin, he or she will implant a catheter with an umbrella-like device on the tip.
• The doctor will then thread the tube the route through the blood vessel to the defected septum.
• When the doctor reaches the suitable spot, he will pull the small device from the tube and plug the hole in the wall.
• Once the device is in place, the doctor will remove the catheter and bandage the puncture hole in the groin
• The treatment normally takes one to two hours, and the patient will be brought to a recovery room for observation afterward.

What are the main characteristics of the catheter intervention method?

Offers a faster healing and a quicker recovery, as well as a better quality of life for many patients in the short to medium term, especially when open surgery is not an option or is technically problematic.

Staff must be well-trained and experienced.

Any parent would be terrified to learn that their child has a heart problem. The good news is that a septal defect can be easily fixed with the help of your experienced cardiologist and a team of well-trained staff. Importantly, the vast majority of patients who have undergone catheter intervention enjoy long and healthy lives.