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The surgeons at UPMC Heart and Vascular Institute are experts at minimally invasive procedures to repair septal defects.
Our specialists are among the most experienced in the region at diagnosing and treating septal defects. If your septal defect requires a surgical repair, our experienced cardiovascular surgeons can provide advanced treatment using minimally invasive catheter-based techniques.
Septal defects are simple and fairly common congenital heart defects, or problems with your heart's structure that are present at birth. These defects change the normal flow of blood through your heart.
A hole in the septum between your heart's two upper chambers is called an atrial septal defect (ASD). A hole in the septum between your heart's two lower chambers is called a ventricular septal defect (VSD). These defects are commonly called a "hole in the heart."
Some septal defects close on their own, and small septal defects can often be followed conservatively without surgery. However, a larger hole or a hole that doesn't close may need to be repaired. The surgeons at PHCVI are experts at minimally invasive procedures for ASD and VSD repair.
Septal defect repair involves placing a closure device into your heart by using a thin tube called a catheter. Your surgeon will make a tiny incision in your groin and insert the catheter into your artery. Your surgeon will then guide the catheter to your heart and place the closure device across your ASD or VSD to close the hole.
When the procedure is completed, you will be moved to recovery for observation and monitoring. You may be required to spend several nights in the hospital. Your doctor will provide more information about your hospital stay and recovery.
You should talk to your doctor about when it is safe to resume normal activities. It is very important that you see your doctor for follow-up visits as recommended.
Phone: 717-731-0101
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