Atrial Septal Defect Closure (ASD)
Steps Involved in IVF:
Procedure Description
Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) closure is a medical procedure that repairs a hole in the wall (septum) between the two upper chambers (atria) of the heart. This defect is congenital, meaning it is present from birth, and it allows oxygen-rich blood to mix with oxygen-poor blood, reducing the heart’s efficiency. While some people with ASD might have no symptoms, larger defects can lead to complications like heart failure, stroke, or high blood pressure in the lungs (pulmonary hypertension). ASD closure is recommended to prevent these issues, particularly in cases where the defect is large or symptoms are present.
The procedure to close an ASD can be performed using minimally invasive techniques or open-heart surgery. Minimally invasive ASD closure, also known as transcatheter closure, involves using a catheter, a thin flexible tube inserted through a blood vessel in the groin, to place a closure device over the defect. The device, once deployed, seals the hole and helps restore normal blood flow between the heart chambers. Open-heart surgery, on the other hand, may be chosen if the defect is unusually large or in cases where transcatheter techniques aren’t suitable.
ASD closure is typically performed in a hospital setting under general anesthesia. It requires advanced imaging to guide the procedure, such as transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) or intracardiac echocardiography, to visualize the septal defect and confirm proper placement of the closure device. The procedure has a high success rate, and patients can often return to a normal life with improved heart function and energy levels.
Procedure Duration
The duration of ASD closure can vary based on the method chosen. Transcatheter ASD closure usually takes between one to three hours, including preparation and recovery time in the operating room. This minimally invasive approach is relatively quick, and most patients are able to leave the hospital within 24 to 48 hours after the procedure.
In contrast, open-heart surgery for ASD repair may require a longer time in the operating room, typically lasting between four to six hours, as it involves opening the chest and placing the patient on a heart-lung bypass machine. Recovery from open-heart ASD closure is more intensive, with a hospital stay of about four to seven days, followed by a gradual recovery period lasting several weeks.
Regardless of the technique used, recovery involves post-procedure monitoring to ensure that the heart is functioning properly. Follow-up visits with a cardiologist are recommended in the weeks and months after the procedure to monitor for potential complications and to assess the long-term effectiveness of the ASD closure. Most patients experience a significant improvement in their symptoms and quality of life once fully recovered.
Benefits
- Enhanced Heart Efficiency: Restores normal blood flow between the heart’s chambers, allowing the heart to function more effectively.
- Improved Quality of Life: Many patients experience relief from symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue, and irregular heartbeat.
- Prevention of Complications: Reduces the risk of serious issues such as stroke, heart failure, and pulmonary hypertension.
- Minimally Invasive Option Available: Transcatheter ASD closure offers a less invasive alternative to open-heart surgery, with shorter recovery times.
- High Success Rate: Both minimally invasive and surgical approaches have high success rates, with lasting benefits for most patients.
Potential Destinations
- India
Known for its advanced cardiac care facilities and skilled cardiologists, India offers high-quality ASD closure procedures at a fraction of the cost compared to many Western countries. Major hospitals in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai are equipped with modern technology and provide international patient support.
- Thailand
Thailand is a popular destination for medical tourism due to its reputation for affordable healthcare and state-of-the-art hospitals. Bangkok and Chiang Mai, in particular, host internationally accredited facilities with cardiologists experienced in ASD closure and other complex cardiac procedures.
- Turkey
With a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia, Turkey has become a major hub for medical tourism, particularly for cardiac treatments. Istanbul and Ankara are home to hospitals that offer cutting-edge cardiac care, including ASD closure, often with lower costs than in Western Europe or North America.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE)
The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, has emerged as a premier medical tourism destination with a focus on high-quality healthcare services. Hospitals in the UAE offer ASD closure procedures with international standards, attracting patients from around the world seeking advanced cardiac care.
- Mexico
Mexico’s proximity to the United States makes it a convenient option for North American patients seeking affordable ASD closure procedures. Major hospitals in Mexico City and Monterrey provide skilled cardiac teams and cater to international patients, often offering bilingual staff and tailored support services.
Risks & Considerations
- Device or Surgical Complications: In rare cases, complications can arise from the placement of the closure device, including dislodgement or an incorrect fit, which may necessitate additional treatment.
- Blood Clots: There is a small risk of developing blood clots post-procedure, which could lead to stroke or other complications. Anticoagulant medications are often prescribed to mitigate this risk.
- Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection, particularly with open-heart surgery. Patients are advised to monitor for any signs of infection after returning home.
- Arrhythmias: Some patients may experience irregular heartbeats (arrhythmias) after the procedure, especially in the immediate recovery period. These usually resolve but may require monitoring and, in some cases, medication.
- Residual Defect: In a small number of cases, the closure may not completely seal the defect, necessitating further intervention. Follow-up imaging is typically used to monitor the success of the procedure.
How to Choose the Right Doctor and Hospital
When selecting a doctor and hospital for ASD closure, prioritize facilities that specialize in cardiac procedures with a track record in congenital heart defect repairs. Look for hospitals that offer advanced imaging technologies and a dedicated cardiology or pediatric cardiology department, as they are essential for ensuring optimal procedure outcomes. International accreditations can be helpful indicators of quality, as they show the facility’s commitment to high standards in healthcare.
It is also advisable to choose a doctor who specializes in congenital heart defects and has experience with ASD closure procedures. Check for reviews, patient testimonials, and any certifications or additional training in cardiology, especially in the field of structural heart diseases. Direct communication with the medical team prior to travel can provide valuable insight into their expertise and the level of support they offer to international patients, ensuring a more seamless and confident treatment experience.
To receive a free quote for this procedure please click on the link: https://www.medicaltourism.com/get-a-quote
Patients are advised to seek hospitals that are accredited by Global Healthcare and only work with medical tourism facilitators who are certified by Global Healthcare Accreditation or who have undergone certification from the Certified Medical Travel Professionals (CMTP). This ensures that the highest standards in the industry are met. GHA accredits the top hospitals in the world. These are the best hospitals in the world for quality and providing the best patient experience. Click the link to check out hospitals accredited by the Global Healthcare Accreditation: https://www.globalhealthcareaccreditation.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What actually happens during hyperstimulation of the ovaries?
The patient will take injectable FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) for eight to eleven days, depending on how long the follicles take to mature. This hormone is produced naturally in a woman’s body causing one egg to develop per cycle. Taking the injectable FSH causes several follicles to develop at once, at approximately the same rate. The development is monitored with vaginal ultrasounds and following the patient’s levels of estradiol and progesterone. FSH brand names include Repronex, Follistim, Menopur, Gonal-F and Bravelle. The patient injects herself daily.
What happens during egg retrieval?
When the follicles have developed enough to be harvested, the patient attends an appointment where she is anesthetized and prepared for the procedure. Next, the doctor uses an ultrasound probe to guide a needle through the vaginal wall and into the follicle of the ovary. The thin needle draws the follicle fluid, which is then examined by an embryologist to find the eggs. The whole process takes about 20 minutes.
What happens to the eggs?
In the next step, the harvested eggs are then fertilized. If the sperm from the potential father, or in some cases, anonymous donor, has normal functionality, the eggs and sperm are placed together in a dish with a nutrient fluid, then incubated overnight to fertilize normally. If the sperm functionality is suboptimal, an embryologist uses Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection to inject a single sperm into a single egg with an extremely precise glass needle. Once fertilization is complete, the embryos are assessed and prepared to be transferred to the patient’s uterus.
How are the embryos transferred back to the uterus?
The doctor and the patient will discuss the number of embryos to be transferred. The number of successfully fertilized eggs usually determines the number of eggs to be placed in the uterus. Embryos are transferred to the uterus with transabdominal ultrasound guidance. This process does not require anesthesia, but it can cause minor cervical or uterine discomfort. Following transfer, the patient is advised to take at least one days bed rest and two or three additional days of rest, then 10 to 12 days later, two pregnancy tests are scheduled to confirm success. Once two positive tests are completed, an obstetrical ultrasound is ordered to show the sac, fetal pole, yolk sac and fetal heart rate.
Embryoscope©
Built into this technology there is a microscope with a powerful camera that allows the uninterrupted monitoring of the embryo during its first hours of life. In this way, we can keep a close eye on the embryo, from the moment when the oocyte is inseminated and begins to divide into smaller and smaller cells, until it can be transferred to the uterus.
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Punta Mita Hospital - Genesis Cell
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