CHDFNigeria
ASD as it is popularly called is the 2nd most common Congenital Heart Defect, accounting for about 7-10% of all patients, and is common among females. It is a defect characterized by hole/communication between both sides of the Atrium. In this defect, there’s left to right shunt (diversion) causing increased Volume in the right Ventricular chamber and pulmonary circulation.
There are 4 types of ASD based on the location:
Ostium premium ASD
Ostium Secondum ASD
Sinus Venosus Defect
Common sinus ASD
Diagnosis
Echocardiography
ECG
Chest -Xray
Splitted 2nd heart sound
Cardiac catheterization
Management
ASD can be corrected via percutaneous device closure in the cardiac catheterization laboratory. This requires the services of paediatric interventional cardiologist which is not readily available in Nigeria. As of 2025, there are less than 5 specialists that can perform this in Nigeria and just about 50 cases happen in Nigeria annually.
ASD can also be treated traditionally via Open heart surgery. This is very possible in Nigeria and associated with high success rate. Post procedure follow up with managing team is a necessity.
