ASD Closure Surgery

Some people are born with congenital heart defects, such as an atrial septal defect (ASD). This condition involves a hole between the heart’s two atria, which can cause shifts in heart pressure and potentially lead to strokes. When indicated, individuals, often young, may seek keyhole closure of this defect. This minimally invasive procedure, in experienced hands, offers rapid relief and a quick return to normal activities.

Approaches
Minimally Invasive

Endoscopic ASD closure

An endoscope, a flexible tube with a camera and light, is inserted through one of the incisions to provide a clear view of the heart and the atrial septal defect.

A catheter is threaded through a vein, typically from the groin, and guided to the heart and the site of the defect.

A closure device is delivered through the catheter. The device is positioned to cover and close the hole in the atrial septum.

The position and effectiveness of the device are verified using echocardiography (ultrasound of the heart) and sometimes fluoroscopy (X-ray imaging).

Open Heart

Rarely used for ASD closures

Almost all ASDs can be easily and safely closed through a small incision on the chest.

Conditions treated
Minimally Invasive

ASDs

Open Heart

ASDs

What to expect
Before Surgery

Minimally invasive & open heart

  • Thorough assessment including medical history, physical examination, and advanced imaging (e.g., echocardiogram, CT scan).
  • Consultation with (Adj) Professor Theo Kofidis to explore minimally invasive & open heart options, their potential benefits & risks, and if patient qualifies for minimally invasive surgery.
During Surgery

Minimally invasive

  • General anaesthesia is administered.
  • A small incision is made in the femoral vein (and sometimes also the femoral artery) in the groin.
  • A catheter holding the closure device is threaded through the vein to the heart.
  • The device is placed into the hole, and the catheter is removed.

Open heart

  • General anaesthesia is administered.
  • An incision is made in the chest to access the heart.
  • The heart-lung machine is used to take over the work of the heart.
  • The defect is located using an endoscope and closed with a patch, plug, or sutures.
After Surgery

Minimally invasive

  • Usually 1 day in ICU & 3-4 days in general ward.
  • Faster mobilisation and return to daily activities.
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and overall cardiac health.

Open heart

  • Usually 2 days in ICU & 5-7 days in general ward.
  • Slower mobilisation while in recovery.
  • Follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress and overall cardiac health.
Benefits
Minimally Invasive
  • Smaller incisions
  • Minimal scarring
  • Faster mobilisation & improved recovery
  • Less infection
  • Less blood loss
  • Less trauma
  • Less arrhythmia
  • Better lung function in the early stage
  • Better cosmetic effect
Open Heart
  • Suitability in certain complex & high-risk cases
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