Is a 10mm atrial septal defect serious in adults?

Atrial septal defect of 10 mm in adults is more serious and requires early evaluation and treatment. Depending on the severity of the condition, medication, percutaneous intervention, or surgical repair may be required to avoid further complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension.

1. Severity and potential risks of atrial septal defect

An atrial septal defect is an abnormal channel between the two atria of the heart, causing abnormal blood shunting. A 10mm atrial septal defect in an adult is considered medium to large, which may cause increased cardiac burden and complications, such as pulmonary hypertension, arrhythmias, and chronic heart failure. If left untreated for a long time, it may gradually lead to impaired heart function and even endanger life. A 10mm atrial septal defect cannot be ignored and requires medical evaluation as soon as possible.

2. Importance of examination and diagnosis

Diagnosis includes echocardiography (especially transesophageal echocardiography, which can more clearly assess the size of the defect and blood flow), electrocardiography, chest x-ray, and cardiac catheterization. Doctors use these tests to fully understand the size and direction of the defect and whether the pulmonary circulation is affected. If there is pulmonary hypertension or abnormal oxygen saturation, it may indicate that the defect has had a significant impact on heart and lung function.

3. How to treat atrial septal defect 10mm in adults

The treatment method depends on the size of the defect, the patient's symptoms and complications. There are three main treatment methods:

1. Drug treatment: For patients with mild symptoms or before surgery, drugs may be used as auxiliary treatment. For example, diuretics reduce the burden on the heart; antiarrhythmic drugs control heart rhythm problems; anticoagulants such as warfarin prevent thrombosis. This type of treatment is a transitional measure to relieve symptoms and it is difficult to fundamentally repair the defect.

2. Percutaneous interventional therapy: The occluder is sent into the defect site through cardiac catheter technology to block blood flow. This is a common minimally invasive method and is suitable for patients with large defects but sufficient marginal tissue. Interventional surgery is less invasive and has a quick recovery, but the cost is relatively high and requires professional evaluation of indications.

3. Surgical repair: Suitable for patients with large defects or weak marginal tissues that cannot be treated with interventional therapy. Surgical methods include direct suturing or using artificial patches to repair the defect. Although surgical operations are more traumatic, they are widely applicable and can completely repair atrial septal defects.

4. Daily life and prevention suggestions

After the treatment is completed, patients need to have their heart function checked regularly and pay attention to physical signals, such as chest tightness, dizziness, palpitations, etc. They need to avoid heavy physical activities and adjust their pace of life. The diet should be light, reduce fat and high salt intake, and follow a low-salt and low-fat diet when necessary. Patients who have undergone surgery or interventional treatment need to prevent infective endocarditis. Poor oral hygiene may lead to infection and should be taken seriously.

Atrial septal defect of 10mm in adults is a relatively serious lesion, and professional examination and treatment measures should be taken as soon as possible to avoid serious complications. It is recommended to seek medical treatment in time, listen to the doctor's advice, choose the appropriate treatment method and follow the principles of health management to ensure long-term cardiopulmonary health.