Revitalize Your Heart with Expert Atrial Septal Defect Repair Surgery in Nigeria
Seek answers to your heart’s questions – our ASD repair surgery in Nigeria provides solutions, ensuring lasting relief from Atrial Septal defects.
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is marked as one of the prevailing congenital heart conditions. It affects approximately 25% of children, according to data from the National Library of Medicine.
Navigating the complexity of the Atrial septic defect and its repair in Nigeria poses a powerful challenge.
Getting the right information, dealing with emotions, and finding specialized care can be tough. It becomes even harder with communication challenges, money issues, and a lack of support. All of this makes dealing with complex diagnoses even more overwhelming.
Families, patients, and caregivers often struggle with limited information, the emotional toll, and access to specialized care that accompanies such diagnoses. Communication barriers, financial constraints, and the sheer lack of a supportive community worsen the situation.
This blog is created with the intent to demystify the complexities of ASD, guide you through available treatment options, and encourage a supportive environment.
Read on, and let the light of knowledge guide you in this ASD journey!
The study states the number of infants born with Atrial Septal Defects (ASDs) has moved up in the last 50 years. Congenital heart disease was a matter of concern in fewer than 1 out of every 1000 newborns in the 1930s. Today, we see a noticeable rise in this heart condition by 9 in every 1000 live births.
What is Atrial septal defect (ASD)?
A congenital heart condition a patient is born with is referred to as Atrial septal defect (ASD).
The condition occurs when the communication between the right and left atria fails to close properly, pushing more blood to flow via your lungs.
For some, these tiny holes might be discovered unexpectedly and not cause much worry. Sometimes, they even close up on their own during childhood.
But if you’ve got a bigger and more persistent hole, it could potentially harm your heart and lungs.
That’s when surgery might come into play. The surgery is performed to fix the hole and prevent any future complications. The main objective of this surgery is to repair and ensure the heart and lungs perform appropriately.
What are the different types of Atrial septal defects (ASDs)?
The atrial septal defects (ASDs) are split into five different types. Each one has some unique characteristics. Let us see them in detail:
Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) refers to an opening in the heart. This opening remains unclosed as expected after birth. The small flap-like opening exists between the upper chambers of the heart.
This defect is the most common type of atrial septal defect.
It is found in the middle of the wall between the upper heart chambers (atrial septum).
The Ostium Primum Defect affects the lower part of the wall between the upper heart chambers. It occurs alongside other congenital heart problems.
Sinus Venosus Defect is a rare type of atrial septal defect. It is typically found in the upper part of the wall between the heart chambers. This defect is often associated with other congenital heart structure changes as well.
The Coronary Sinus Defect is part of the heart’s vein system. In this defect, the part of the wall between the coronary sinus and the left upper heart chamber is missing. It is also considered to be a rare form of atrial septal defect.
Understanding these different types helps in tailoring treatment approaches based on the specific characteristics of the atrial septal defect present in a patient.
What are the symptoms of an atrial septal defect?
In many cases, children with atrial septal defects show no apparent symptoms and appear healthy. However, some infants or young children, especially those with other lung issues, may display symptoms due to the increased blood flow to the lungs.
The common signs of an atrial septal defect may include:
- Fatigue during play
- General tiredness
- Sweating
- Rapid breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Poor growth
- Frequent respiratory infections
It’s vital to note that these symptoms can be similar to other medical conditions or heart problems. Always consult with your child’s physician for a proper diagnosis.
What Causes Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
The exact cause of atrial septal defect (ASD) is not well-defined, but it appears to be linked to the heart’s structural development during pregnancy.
Various factors may contribute to the occurrence of congenital heart defects, including ASD:
- Genetic Changes: Alterations in genes can influence the development of congenital heart defects, potentially including atrial septal defects.
- Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions may play a role in the development of congenital heart defects, contributing to the occurrence of ASD.
- Medications: Specific medications, when taken during pregnancy, might be associated with an increased risk of congenital heart defects, including ASD.
- Smoking: Smoking during pregnancy has been identified as a potential factor that could contribute to the development of atrial septal defects and other congenital heart issues.
- Alcohol Misuse: Misuse of alcohol during pregnancy is recognized as a risk factor that may contribute to congenital heart defects, including ASD.
While these factors are associated with the development of ASD, it’s important to note that in many cases, the exact cause remains unclear.
What are the Risk Factors for Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart defect that develops as the baby’s heart forms during pregnancy.
Several factors may increase the risk of a baby having ASD or other heart problems at birth, including:
- Exposure to German Measles (Rubella): Contracting German measles, especially during the early months of pregnancy, can heighten the risk of atrial septal defect.
- Maternal Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes and lupus in the mother may contribute to an increased risk of the baby developing ASD.
- Substance Use During Pregnancy: The use of alcohol, tobacco, and cocaine during pregnancy can elevate the risk of congenital heart defects, including ASD.
- Certain Medications During Pregnancy: The use of specific medications, particularly those prescribed for seizures and mood conditions, may be associated with an increased risk of atrial septal defect.
- Genetic Factors: Some types of congenital heart defects, including ASD, can run in families, indicating a genetic predisposition. Informing your healthcare team about any family history of heart problems at birth is crucial. Genetic counseling can help assess the risk of such heart defects in future generations.
Understanding these risk factors allows for proactive measures during pregnancy and enables healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care to reduce potential risks associated with atrial septal defects.
How is an Atrial Septal Defect Diagnosed?
If your child’s physician detected a heart murmur during a routine examination, they may have referred your child to a pediatric cardiologist for further evaluation.
This heart murmur is often caused by the extra blood flowing through the pulmonary valve due to the atrial septal defect (ASD).
A pediatric cardiologist specializing in congenital heart defects will conduct a thorough examination. The examination includes listening to the heart and lungs, to make initial observations.
The location, loudness, and quality of the murmur provide valuable insights into the potential heart problem. Diagnostic testing for congenital heart disease varies based on the child’s age and clinical condition and may include:
Uses X-ray beams to create images of internal tissues, bones, and organs. Enlargement of the heart and changes in the lungs due to increased blood flow can be observed in the case of ASD.
Records the heart’s electrical activity, revealing abnormal rhythms and detecting stress on the heart muscle.
The doctors evaluate the heart’s structure and function using sound waves. An echo provides a moving picture of the heart and its valves, offering insights into the blood flow pattern through the atrial septal opening. It helps determine the size of the opening and the amount of blood passing through.
These diagnostic tests, guided by a pediatric cardiologist, contribute to a comprehensive understanding of the atrial septal defect and aid in determining the most suitable course of action for your child’s care.
Preliminary data from the National Paediatric Cardiac Registry suggests that around 1296 children are born with Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) annually in Nigeria. Unfortunately, resources for managing CHD in Nigeria and other African countries are often overlooked, with attention diverted to communicable diseases like malaria, HIV, and diarrhea.
Research indicates that the first recorded foreign congenital cardiac surgery mission for children in Nigeria took place in 2003. However, the interventions were limited, and participants were dissatisfied due to poor handling of essential drugs by the local team, leading to a period of inactivity.
In February 2013, cardiac missions resumed. This time it addresses both children and adult patients. This new wave was fueled by Nigerians in the diaspora aiming to bridge the wide gap created by the government’s insensitivity to the needs of many Nigerians with CHD.
While challenges persist, it’s essential to note that the Indian medical community has been recognized for its expertise in congenital heart surgeries.
Research studies have shown that India has made significant strides in this field, with specialized centers achieving commendable success rates and outcomes. Patients from various countries, including Nigeria, have sought medical care in India due to the reputation of Indian doctors and the quality of healthcare services.
How is an Atrial Septal Defect Treated?
The treatment plan for an atrial septal defect (ASD) is tailored based on several factors, including your child’s age, complete health, and the extent of the defect.
The treatment decision may be influenced by the child’s tolerance for specific options, expectations for the defect’s course, and the family’s preferences.
From evaluating the best course of action to tailoring customized treatment plans, like considering factors such as the patient’s age, health, and the nature of the ASD. MedicoExperts ensures a comprehensive approach.
Here are the common approaches:
Observation:
For secundum atrial septal defects, some may close on their own as the child grows. Regular evaluations by a cardiologist are essential to monitor the closure progress.
If it hasn’t closed by the time the child starts school, repair may be recommended to prevent potential lung problems from prolonged exposure to extra blood flow.
Medical Management:
Many children with no symptoms may not require medications.
However, in rare cases where the heart is under strain, medications like diuretics may be prescribed to help the heart function more efficiently.
Surgical Repair:
For cases requiring intervention, surgical repair may be performed under general anesthesia.
The defect can be closed using stitches or a special patch.
Device Closure:
This procedure is often performed for secundum ASD, especially for smaller defects and lighter-weight children. It involves inserting a catheter into a blood vessel in the groin and guiding it to the heart.
A special device, called a septal occluder, is then placed to close the ASD, preventing abnormal blood flow.
The choice of treatment depends on various factors, and your child’s healthcare team will work closely with you to determine the most suitable approach for your child’s specific situation.
What happens during surgical closure of an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
When you undergo surgery to close an ASD, here’s a simplified breakdown:
Anesthesia:
You are given medications that make you sleep deeply (general anesthesia) so that you feel no pain during the surgery.
Monitoring:
Various machines are connected to you to monitor vital signs like heart rate and breathing. A heart-lung machine is also connected to temporarily take over the heart’s function.
Incision:
The surgeon makes a cut in your chest. This cut can be down the middle over your breastbone, on the right side of your chest, or in another location determined by your surgeon.
Accessing the Heart:
Ribs are gently spread using a special tool. An endoscope, a thin tube with a light and camera, helps the surgeon locate the ASD.
Closing the Defect:
Once the ASD is found, it’s closed using a plug, patch, or sutures. This ensures that the abnormal opening in the heart’s wall is sealed.
Throughout the procedure, you are in a deep sleep and monitored closely to ensure a safe and successful surgery.
MedicoExperts stands as a reliable partner throughout this journey, offering support from evaluation to post-operative care.
As we ensure precision in every step with our commitment to excel. MedicoExperts facilitates access to top-tier surgical facilities and skilled professionals to ensure optimal closure. We also ensure top-notch monitoring to guarantee patient safety.
What happens after fixing an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?
Most kids who’ve had their atrial septal defect repaired can lead healthy lives. Your child’s heart specialist might suggest antibiotics for a while after leaving the hospital to prevent bacterial infections.
The long-term outcome depends on factors like the type of ASD, how early it was found and fixed, and if there were any complications.
When an ASD is spotted early and fixed, the outlook is usually great, and not much follow-up is needed. But if the diagnosis comes later, there were issues after the repair, or the ASD wasn’t fixed, the outlook might not be as good.
There’s a risk of developing high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). In these cases, it’s important to get follow-up care from a specialized center for congenital heart disease.
For the specific outlook for your child, it’s best to talk with your child’s doctor.
MedicoExperts’ experienced doctors provide post-operative care, guiding patients through the healing process and offering support. MedicoExperts offers a smooth and monitored recovery for patients who have undergone ASD in Nigeria.
Conclusion
Understanding Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) and its various aspects from diagnosis to treatment is crucial for patients and families navigating this condition.
While ASD can present challenges, advancements in medical interventions, such as surgical closure and device-based procedures, offer promising outcomes, especially when detected and addressed early in life.
The journey from diagnosis to treatment involves collaboration between patients, healthcare providers, and specialized medical teams.
Navigating the complexities of ASD requires expert guidance and support.
MedicoExpert, our dedicated healthcare platform, connects you with experienced medical professionals, specialists, and resources tailored to your specific needs.
Whether seeking information, second opinions, or guidance on treatment options, MedicoExpert serves as a reliable partner in your healthcare journey.
Connect with MedicoExpert to access a network of medical experts who can provide valuable insights, answer your queries, and guide you through the best possible care options.
MedicoExperts Surgical Camps in Nigeria is positioned to play a pivotal role in your ASD treatment journey:
Our camps are home to highly skilled surgical teams specializing in cardiac procedures, ensuring that patients receive top-notch care from experts with extensive experience in ASD closure.
Equipped with the latest medical technology, our campus provides a modern and advanced setting for cardiac interventions. We understand that ASD can be a challenging condition, and our commitment is to provide a patient-centric experience.
Visit MedicoExpert to schedule a consultation today!
MedicoExperts Surgical Centre near you
Frequently Asked Questions and patient concerns:
Q1. Is Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) common in adults, or is it primarily a condition affecting children?
A. While ASD is often diagnosed in childhood, it can also go undetected and be diagnosed in adults. The prevalence spans across various age groups.
Q2. Are there lifestyle changes or precautions recommended after ASD closure surgery?
A. In most cases, individuals can resume normal activities after recovery. However, it’s advisable to discuss specific post-surgery guidelines with your healthcare team, including any recommended lifestyle adjustments.
Q3. Can ASD closure be done through minimally invasive procedures, or is open-heart surgery the only option?
A. Depending on the size and location of the ASD, minimally invasive procedures, such as device closure through catheterization, may be considered. It’s essential to consult with a cardiologist to determine the most suitable approach.
Q4. Are there specific genetic factors that increase the likelihood of ASD development?
A. While some congenital heart defects, including ASD, can have a genetic component, the majority occur sporadically. A genetic counselor can provide personalized insights based on family history.
Q5. Can ASD closure surgery be performed during pregnancy, or is it typically postponed until after childbirth?
A. In most cases, ASD closure is postponed until after childbirth to minimize risks. However, individual circumstances vary, and consultation with a healthcare provider, including experts at MedicoExpert, is essential to determine the best approach. The specialized team at MediCoExpert can provide personalized insights based on your situation.
