How long can a 15-year-old with atrial septal defect live?

The prognosis of atrial septal defect depends on the size of the defect and the treatment. Patients can usually live a normal life after timely surgical intervention. For 15-year-old patients with atrial septal defect, untreated may affect life expectancy, but after surgical repair, life expectancy is similar to that of healthy people. Treatment methods include transcatheter closure, open chest surgery and minimally invasive surgery. The specific choice depends on the size of the defect and the patient's physical condition.

Atrial septal defect is a congenital heart disease characterized by a defect in the septum between the left and right atria of the heart, which causes abnormal shunting of blood. Smaller defects may cause no obvious symptoms, while larger defects may lead to serious complications such as heart failure and pulmonary hypertension. Untreated atrial septal defects may shorten life expectancy, but modern medical technology can effectively improve prognosis.

1. Transcatheter occlusion is a minimally invasive treatment method. The occluder is delivered into the heart defect through a catheter. It is suitable for small and medium-sized defects, with little trauma and quick recovery.

2. Open chest surgery is suitable for larger or complex defects. Direct suture or patch repair of the defect is effective, but the recovery time is longer.

3. Minimally invasive surgery combines the advantages of open-chest surgery and catheter technology, completing the repair through a small incision. It is suitable for some patients and has a faster recovery after surgery.

After surgery, patients need to have their heart function checked regularly, avoid strenuous exercise, and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The diet should be low in salt and fat, and they should eat more foods rich in vitamins and proteins, such as fish, vegetables, and fruits. Appropriate light aerobic exercise, such as walking or swimming, can help with heart recovery.

The prognosis of atrial septal defect is closely related to the timing of treatment. Early detection and active intervention can significantly improve the quality of life and prolong life. Patients and their families should actively cooperate with doctors in treatment and pay attention to monitoring and conditioning after surgery to ensure long-term health.