About Atrial Septal Defect Surgery
Key Highlights
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Definitive correction of the heart defect, preventing long-term complications.Restores normal blood circulation and reduces strain on the heart and lungs.Enables normal growth, development, and physical activity in children.Can often be performed using minimally invasive techniques, leading to smaller scars and faster recovery.High success rate with excellent long-term outcomes when performed by specialized pediatric cardiac teams.
Who is this surgery for?
- A moderate to large-sized ASD that does not close on its own by age 2-5 years.
- Evidence of right heart enlargement or strain detected on echocardiogram.
- Presence of symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, poor growth, or recurrent lung infections.
- To prevent future complications like pulmonary hypertension, atrial arrhythmias, or stroke risk.
- Certain types of ASDs (e.g., sinus venosus, primum) that are unlikely to close spontaneously.
How to prepare
- Comprehensive diagnostic tests including echocardiogram, ECG, and possibly cardiac catheterization.
- Pre-operative consultation with the pediatric cardiac surgeon, anesthesiologist, and cardiologist.
- Blood tests and a general health check-up to ensure fitness for surgery.
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure as instructed.
- Discussion of the surgical plan, risks, and post-operative care with the family.
- Administration of any pre-operative medications as prescribed.
Risks & possible complications
- Bleeding during or after surgery, potentially requiring transfusion.
- Risk of infection at the surgical site or systemic infection.
- Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias), which may be temporary or require medication.
- Reaction to anesthesia.
- Blood clot formation, which could lead to stroke or pulmonary embolism.
- Residual leak around the patch or device (rare).
- Damage to nearby heart structures, blood vessels, or nerves.
- Fluid accumulation around the heart or lungs (pericardial or pleural effusion).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Initial recovery in the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Unit (PCICU) for close monitoring.
- Pain management with medications to keep the child comfortable.
- Gradual resumption of feeding and mobilization as tolerated.
- Careful monitoring of the incision site for signs of infection.
- Discharge with instructions on activity restrictions, wound care, and medication schedules.
- Regular follow-up appointments with the pediatric cardiologist for echocardiograms to check the repair.
- A gradual return to normal activities and school over several weeks, with contact sports restricted for a few months.
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Typical hospital stay: 5-10 days
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Expected recovery time: 4-6 weeks for return to normal activities
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering atrial septal defect surgery in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Popular choices for atrial septal defect surgery in India include Manipal Hospital Siliguri, known for experienced specialists and advanced surgical infrastructure.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform atrial septal defect surgery. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric cardiac surgeons and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for atrial septal defect surgery compare across other countries where we have data.
Top hospitals for Atrial Septal Defect Surgery in India
These partner hospitals in India have dedicated pediatric cardiac surgery teams and experience managing patients undergoing atrial septal defect surgery.
Sophia Miller was a bubbly 4-year-old...
Sophia Miller was a bubbly 4-year-old who loved dancing and chasing her older brother. Her parents first noticed something was amiss during a routine check-up when their pediatrician heard a heart murmur. Over the next year, Sophia became easily winded during play, often needing to sit out at the playground. She was diagnosed with a moderate secundum-type Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). Pediatric cardiologist Dr. Evans explained that the 'hole in her heart' was causing extra blood flow to her lungs, making her tired. He recommended surgical closure before she started school to prevent long-term strain on her heart and lungs. The surgery, performed via a small incision under her right arm, went smoothly. In the hospital, Sophia was brave but scared, clinging to her stuffed bunny. After three days, she was home. Within six weeks, her energy was transformed. She could now keep up with her brother, her cheeks were rosy, and the constant fatigue was gone. Her parents' journey from anxious worry to immense relief was profound, watching their once-tired little girl now bursting with vibrant, uninterrupted joy.
Pediatric Cardiac surgeons for Atrial Septal Defect Surgery
Explore experienced pediatric cardiac surgeons who regularly perform atrial septal defect surgery and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 31 Years Experience
- Pediatric Cardiac surgeon
Miot Hospital Chennai, Chennai
- 25 Years Experience
- Pediatric Cardiac surgeon
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 20 Years Experience
- Pediatric Cardiac surgeon
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon
- 17 Years Experience
- Pediatric Cardiac surgeon
Artemis Hospital Gurgaon, Gurgaon