Atrial septal defect

What is it?

An atrial septal defect is a “hole” in the interatrial septum, thereby creating a connection between the left atrium and the right atrium. It is a common malformation (6–10% of congenital heart disease; 1 in 1,500 births).
This atrial septal defect allows oxygenated blood to mix with “deoxygenated” blood. The result is an increased workload for the right atrium, the right ventricle and the lungs.

Symptoms

Shortness of breath or fatigue during exertion, palpitations… People with an atrial septal defect are more likely to have a Cerebrovascular accident.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the size and location of the defect and its effects on the heart and lungs. Very often, the atrial septal defect is closed surgically. It is also possible to close it percutaneously (that is, without surgically opening the chest, using cardiac catheterisation techniques).