Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
atrial septal defect
A congenital heart defect involving an abnormal opening in the wall separating the heart's two upper chambers.
Full Definition
An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart malformation characterized by an abnormal communication between the left and right atria. The defect allows oxygenated blood from the left atrium to flow into the right atrium, creating a left-to-right shunt. ASDs are classified by location (secundum, primum, sinus venosus) and may require surgical or transcatheter closure depending on size and hemodynamic significance. Small ASDs may close spontaneously during childhood.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as ASD in medical records; ensure clarity when using abbreviation.
In Context
- "The echocardiogram revealed a moderate secundum atrial septal defect with left-to-right shunting." — Diagnostic report
- "Transcatheter atrial septal defect closure was performed using an Amplatzer septal occluder." — Operative note
Also known as
ASD
Contrasted with
intact atrial septum
Don't confuse with
ventricular septal defect
patent foramen ovale