A minimally invasive Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) closure procedure typically takes about three hours to complete.
Understanding the Minimally Invasive ASD Closure Procedure
An Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a common heart condition characterized by a hole in the wall that separates the heart's upper chambers (atria). For many patients, this can be corrected through a minimally invasive catheter-based procedure, which avoids the need for traditional open-heart surgery.
During this modern approach, the procedure is carried out with a focus on patient comfort and reduced recovery time:
- Incision Site: Rather than a large incision in the chest, the doctor makes a small incision, most commonly in the groin area.
- Catheter Guidance: A thin, flexible tube known as a catheter is gently inserted through this small incision. The catheter is then carefully guided through the patient's blood vessels, navigating a path up to the heart.
- Defect Closure: Once the catheter reaches the heart, a specialized device is deployed through it to effectively close the atrial septal defect, allowing blood to flow correctly and improving heart function.
Key Aspects of the Procedure Duration
- Average Time: The entire process, from initial incision to the completion of the closure and catheter removal, usually spans approximately three hours.
- Anesthesia Options: Patients have different choices for anesthesia, which are discussed with their medical team. The procedure can be performed under general anesthesia, where the patient is completely asleep, or with the use of sedatives that induce relaxation but allow the patient to remain conscious.
This minimally invasive technique aims to provide an effective solution for ASD closure with fewer complications and a quicker return to daily activities compared to more traditional surgical methods.
