Left image(1a) represents a normal human heart with no ASD. The right picture (1b) accounts for a heart with ASD. The Ostium secundum atrial septal defect (ASD) refers to the location in heart (Atria), septum refers to the wall separating the ventricles, and ostium secundum relates to the site of the defect (center part of the septum)
ASD is usually asymptomatic in children, but the condition can worsen in adulthood. The ASD allows for extra blood flow to the right atrium, and ventricle, which leads to additional flow to the lungs resulting in an overworked system. Eventually, if the condition is not repaired, it can lead to lung damage or heart failure during adulthood. The current diagnostic methods include electrocardiograms (ECG), chest x-ray ( CXR), echocardiogram, cardiac catheterization, CT and MRI scans.
There are several current methods to repaired the Ostium secundum ASD. Pharmaceuticals is one of the primary options to treat this abnormality; however, the treatments vary depending on the patients and the severity of their condition. Another treatment option is the open-heart surgery which is performed in children between 3 to 6 years of age, and it includes stopping the heart and connecting it to a heart-lung machine which acts as an artificial heart. Once the heart is stopped the opening is stitched or patch with a special mesh, and then the heart is re-started, and the chest is stitched [4]. Open heart surgery is an invasive procedure which can