Seeing Is Believing — A Close Look at ASD Device Closure
An Atrial Septal Defect, or ASD, is a hole in the wall that separates the two upper chambers of the heart. Many people are born with this condition and may not know about it for years. If the hole is large enough, it can put extra strain on the heart and lungs over time.
The good news is that, in many cases, this hole can be closed without open-heart surgery.
What Does the Device Actually Look Like?
Dr. Nikhila Pachani, Consultant Interventional Cardiologist at Krishjivani / Backbone Medicity Hospital in Rajkot, recently shared images that give a clear picture of the entire process:
- Outside the body: The ASD closure device looks like a small, round, mesh disc — almost like a flat button made of fine metal wire. It is soft and flexible, and it fits in the palm of a gloved hand.
- Inside the heart: Once the device is guided through a thin tube (catheter) inserted via a vein — usually in the groin — it opens up like an umbrella on both sides of the hole, sealing it firmly in place. The fluoroscopy (live X-ray) and echocardiography images in the post show the device sitting perfectly across the heart wall after deployment.
Why Is This Approach Preferred?
Because there is no chest cut, no stitches, and no general anaesthesia in most cases. Patients typically recover much faster compared to traditional surgery, and the hospital stay is short.
The fluoroscopy images show the catheter path and the device as it expands, while the echocardiogram confirms the device is in the right position and the hole is closed.
Who Should Get Checked?
Symptoms of ASD can include unexplained tiredness, shortness of breath, frequent chest infections, or a heart murmur noticed during a routine check-up. However, many patients have no symptoms at all, which is why a cardiac evaluation is important if ASD is suspected.
If you or a family member has been told about a hole in the heart, or if you notice any of the symptoms above, speak to a qualified cardiologist to understand the right treatment option for your situation.
For appointments with Dr. Nikhila Pachani in Rajkot, contact Krishjivani or Backbone Medicity Hospital.