From the Guidelines
Transcatheter closure of secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) is the treatment of choice in children, as it is associated with low complication rates, short anesthetic times, and short hospitalizations, and has become the preferred method over surgery in many institutions. The decision to treat an ASD in children depends on the size, location, and symptoms of the defect. Small ASDs may close on their own during early childhood and only require monitoring with regular echocardiograms 1. However, larger defects that don't close spontaneously may require intervention.
Key Considerations
- The AMPLATZER septal occluder and HELEX septal occluder are the only devices approved for secundum ASD closure in the United States, and have been shown to have favorable outcomes compared to traditional surgical closure 1.
- Echocardiography plays a significant role in guiding transcatheter ASD closure procedures and assessing the final result 1.
- The timing of intervention usually occurs between 2-5 years of age, though symptomatic infants may need earlier treatment.
- Before repair, children with significant defects may need medications to manage heart failure symptoms, such as diuretics, ACE inhibitors, or digoxin in specific cases.
Treatment Options
- Transcatheter closure of secundum ASD is a preferred method due to its low risk and short recovery time 1.
- Surgical repair may be necessary for other types of ASDs or for children who are not suitable candidates for transcatheter closure.
- The choice of treatment should be individualized based on the child's specific condition and medical history.
Outcomes
- Most children who undergo ASD repair can lead normal, active lives with excellent long-term outcomes 1.
- Early intervention can help prevent complications such as pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, or arrhythmias.
From the Research
Treatment for Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) in Children
There are no research papers to assist in answering this question, as the provided studies focus on nasal septal perforations, not atrial septal defects.
- The studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 discuss various treatments for nasal septal perforations, including surgical approaches and the use of nasal septal buttons.
- However, these studies do not provide information on the treatment of atrial septal defects in children.
- Atrial septal defects are a type of congenital heart defect, and their treatment typically involves surgical or catheter-based interventions, but this is not discussed in the provided studies.