atrial septal defect
A congenital heart defect involving an opening in the wall between the heart's two upper chambers.
Full Definition
Atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition characterized by an abnormal opening in the atrial septum, the wall that separates the right and left atria. This defect allows oxygen-rich blood from the left atrium to mix with oxygen-poor blood in the right atrium, potentially leading to complications such as right heart enlargement, pulmonary hypertension, and arrhythmias. ASDs are classified by location: secundum (most common), primum, and sinus venosus types. Surgical repair may involve patch closure or primary suture repair depending on the size and type of defect.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as ASD in clinical documentation; ensure context clarifies which type of septal defect is referenced.
In Context
- "The surgical report indicated successful patch closure of the secundum atrial septal defect using autologous pericardium." — Operative report
- "Preoperative echocardiography revealed a large atrial septal defect with significant left-to-right shunting." — Pre-surgical assessment