ASD/VSD/PFO CLOSURE

Atrial Septal Defect/Ventricular Septal Defect/Patent Foramen Ovale Closure - A small hole in the wall of the heart that can lead to strokes, heart failure or leg swelling. Instead of performing open heart surgery, a tiny incision is made in the groin and conforming patches are advanced through small catheters to permanently seal these holes, allowing for a much faster recovery and less complications.

+ who is a good candidate for ASD/VSd/pfo closure?

  • Patients who have had strokes, evidence of heart failure or enlargement of the heart may be appropriate candidates

+ WHAT TESTS DO I NEED AS PART OF MY WORK-UP FOR ASD/VSD/PFO CLOSURE?

  • Transesophageal echocardiogram

+ HOW IS THE ASD/VSD/PFO CLOSURE DONE?

  • You have to be asleep for the ASD/VSD/PFO closure
  • It takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours to complete the ASD/VSD/PFO closure, but there is always about 45 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of recovery time after the procedure is done
  • You may have catheters (tubes) advanced along your neck, wrist and right groins
  • You will likely be a little groggy after the procedure because of the anesthesia
  • There will likely be some soreness along the groin immediately after the procedure

+ WHAT CAN I EXPECT POST ASD/VSD/PFO CLOSURE?

  • You can usually go home the same day (except for VSD closure, you should spend the night)
  • Bruising and small bumps along the groin puncture site or down your legs is expected and will disappear within 1-2 months
  • If you had shortness of breath, it should improve over the next 2 weeks
  • No lifting more than 20lbs on either hand for 1 week
  • No running, jumping, squatting, exercising, swimming or submerging your body under water for 1 week
  • You CAN walk, climb stairs and shower the day after your procedure