Strong Heart and Vascular Center

Cardiac Catheterization Labs

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Interventional Procedures

What is an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Repair?

An ASD repair, also called a closure, is a procedure that's done to close the opening in the wall of the atrial septum (called an atrial septal defect). During this procedure, a catheter with the Amplatzer® Septal Occluder device is inserted through the leg vein up to the heart, where the device is left to close the opening.

What to Expect Prior to the Procedure

You will meet with the physician performing the procedure.
Blood work will be done days prior to assure proper electrolyte balance and clotting function.
A nurse practitioner will review you medical history, possibly during your doctor visit.
You will be asked for a list of current medications and dosages.
Inform the nurse if you are taking Warfarin/Coumadin. (Coumadin is often discontinued prior to your procedure.)
Inform the nurse of any allergies to medicine, especially to IVP dye or Contrast solution.

Read and print out full instructions.

What to Expect the Day of the Procedure

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight.
You will be instructed on which medications you may take with water.
Arrive at the given time; there is no need to arrive early.
Bring the entire list of your current medications and dosages with you to the hospital.
You will meet several people who will be your health care team.
The procedure, including the risks and benefits involved, will be discussed with you, and you will be asked to sign a consent.

What to Expect During the Procedure

IV medicine will be given to help you relax and keep you comfortable.
Your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen level will be monitored.
Under a sterile technique, you will be prepared for the procedure.
Medication will be used to numb the entry site (most likely the groin area).
How it feels—There is some stinging and/or burning as the numbing medicine is placed.
A small hollow tube (catheter) will be placed in the vein and directed to the heart under digital imaging guidance.
How it feels—There is some pressure at the site. No sensations are felt in the heart.
The device will then be directed through the opening in the atrial septum. Using digital and echocardiogram guidance, the device is positioned and deployed.
How it feels—You most likely won't feel anything.
Procedure takes about 1 to 1½ hours.
The tube in your vein will be removed while pressure is held for about 20 minutes.
After the procedure, the physician will talk with you and a family member per your request.

What to Expect After the Procedure

You will be monitored overnight.
You will be on bedrest for 4-6 hours after the procedure.
While in the hospital, a chest x-ray and echocardiogram will be done to confirm proper device positioning.
Aspirin will be prescribed for 6 months following your procedure, to prevent blood clots from forming on your device.
Clopidrogrel (Plavix) may also be prescribed for 3 months after your procedure, to prevent blood clots from forming on your device.
For 6 months, you are required to take an antiobiotic prior to dental cleaning or procedures to prevent infection of the new device.

Activity Restrictions

No heavy lifting, pushing, or pulling greater than 10 pounds for 5 days.
After 5 days, no heavy activity that causes deep breathing for 6-8 weeks.
No driving for 5 days.
No tub baths, swimming, or hot tubs for 7 days.
Specific instructions will be given to you at discharge.

Common Experiences When You Are Home

Tenderness at the procedure site.
May have a small bump (size of a quarter) at the procedure site.
Bruising is common at the procedure site.
Possible sensations in the chest: palpitations, chest discomfort or pressure. This is very common about 2 weeks to 6 weeks post closure; usually treatment is NOT required. Prior to discharge, you will be given instructions and a person to contact with questions or concerns.

What You Should Report Immediately

Upon discharge, we will provide you with a phone number to contact us if you experience any of the following:

Severe discomfort at the insertion site
Bleeding at the insertion site
Increase in chest, arm, or jaw pain
Shortness of breath
Redness or signs of infection at the insertion site

Back to Types of Cardiac Catheterization Procedures