• Catheter-Based Intervention (Minimally Invasive): – A small device is inserted through a vein using a catheter and positioned to seal the defect.
• Surgical Closure (Open-Heart Surgery): – Involves direct visualization and repair of the heart using sutures or patches, often under cardiopulmonary bypass.
• Hybrid Approach: – A combination of surgical and catheter-based techniques for complex or high-risk cases.

Types of Defects Treated

• Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)
• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)
• Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA)
• Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD)
• Complex Congenital Heart Defects

Indications

This procedure is recommended when the heart defect:

• Causes significant symptoms (e.g., fatigue, breathlessness, cyanosis)
• Leads to abnormal heart enlargement or lung pressures
• Increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, or pulmonary hypertension

What to Expect

• Diagnosis – Through echocardiography, cardiac MRI, or CT scan.
• Pre-Procedure Evaluation – Includes blood tests, ECG, and anesthetic assessment.
• Procedure Duration – Typically 1–4 hours depending on the type of defect and method used.
• Recovery – Varies by method; catheter procedures may require 1–2 days of hospitalization, while surgical closures may require 5–7 days.

Post-Procedure Care

• Regular cardiac check-ups
• Temporary activity restrictions
• Medications (if prescribed)
• Endocarditis prevention for certain patients

Advantages of Timely Closure

• Normalized blood flow and oxygen levels
• Improved physical activity and growth (in children)
• Prevention of long-term complications
• Enhanced life expectancy and heart health