Structural heart diseases involve defects or abnormalities in the heart's anatomy, including the walls, valves, or chambers. Structural heart interventions are minimally invasive procedures used to correct these defects without the need for open-heart surgery. These procedures help improve heart function, reduce symptoms, and enhance the quality of life for patients with congenital or acquired heart defects. This guide explores some of the most common structural heart interventions.

Common Structural Heart Interventions

1. Transcatheter Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure

An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a hole in the wall (septum) separating the heart’s upper chambers (atria). This congenital defect can cause abnormal blood flow between the chambers, leading to complications such as heart failure or stroke if left untreated.

Procedure: A catheter is inserted through a vein, typically in the groin, and guided to the heart. A closure device is then placed over the hole to seal it, allowing the heart tissue to heal around it over time. This minimally invasive approach reduces recovery time and eliminates the need for open-heart surgery.

2. Transcatheter Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Closure

A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a hole in the wall between the lower chambers of the heart (ventricles). This defect can cause excessive blood flow to the lungs, leading to increased heart workload and complications such as pulmonary hypertension.

Procedure: A catheter is inserted into a vein and guided to the heart. A specialized closure device is deployed to seal the hole, preventing abnormal blood flow between the ventricles. This procedure is a safe and effective alternative to surgical repair, with minimal recovery time.

3. Transcatheter Patent Ductus Arteriosus (PDA) Closure

Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is a condition where a temporary blood vessel (ductus arteriosus) that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta fails to close after birth. If left untreated, PDA can lead to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and other complications.

Procedure: A catheter is inserted through a vein and advanced to the heart. A small closure device, such as a coil or plug, is placed within the PDA to block the abnormal blood flow. This minimally invasive procedure helps restore normal circulation and prevents long-term complications.

4. Left Atrial Appendage (LAA) Closure

The left atrial appendage (LAA) is a small pouch in the left atrium of the heart. In patients with atrial fibrillation, blood can pool in the LAA, increasing the risk of clot formation and stroke. LAA closure is performed to reduce this risk, especially in patients who cannot take long-term blood thinners.

Procedure: A catheter is inserted through a vein and guided to the heart. A closure device is placed over the opening of the LAA, effectively sealing it off to prevent blood clot formation. This procedure significantly lowers the risk of stroke in high-risk patients while avoiding the complications of long-term anticoagulation therapy.

Benefits of Structural Heart Interventions

Conclusion

Structural heart interventions provide effective, minimally invasive solutions for congenital and acquired heart defects. Procedures like ASD, VSD, and PDA closures, along with LAA closure, help restore normal heart function, prevent complications, and improve patient outcomes. Structural heart defects can now be treated with minimally invasive interventions, avoiding the risks of open-heart surgery. These safe and effective procedures improve heart function and quality of life.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a heart defect, don’t wait! Consult Dr. Rohit Kumar, Cardiology, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment. Book an appointment today and take the first step toward a healthier heart!