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An ostium secundum atrial septal defect is a type of congenital heart defect called an atrial septal defect (ASD). An ASD is a hole in the wall (septum) between the two upper chambers of the heart (the atria). ASDs can be classified by location. An ostium secundum ASD is a hole in the center of the atrial septum.[11976]
Normally, the right side of the heart pumps oxygen-poor blood to the lungs, while the left side pumps oxygen-rich blood to the body. An ASD allows blood from both sides to mix, causing the heart to work less efficiently.[11978]
A small hole may not cause any symptoms or problems. A larger hole can eventually cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, respiratory infections, fainting, irregular heart rhythms or fatigue after mild activity.[11978][11977] Larger ASDs can also ultimately lead to pulmonary artery hypertension, right ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement); SVT, or heart failure.[11976]
Most cases of ASD are not inherited and occur by chance. Some cases appear to have autosomal dominant inheritance.[11979]
Treatment may not be needed for small ASDs, which often close on their own.[11976] Larger ASDs are typically closed during childhood with open heart surgery or by cardiac catheterization.[11977]
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