Calixtro, Laidelle Jascinth M.

BSN –III

NARRATIVE PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF ATRIAL SEPTAL DEFECT

An Atrial Septal Defect is a congenital heart defect in which there is a "hole" in the wall
that separates the top two chambers (atria) of the heart. A hole can vary in size and may close
on its own or may require surgery. An atrial septal defect is one type of congenital heart defect
(CDC, 2019). This defect allows oxygen-rich blood to leak into the oxygen-poor blood chambers
in the heart. Its etiological factor can be possibly related from genetic linkages. Although some of
them might happen by chance. The degree of left to right shunting depends on the extent of the
defect, the relative consistency of the right ventricle and left ventricle, and the relative vascular
resistance of the pulmonary and systematic circulation. As the left atrial pressure increases, there
is a left or right shunt. Burden on the right side of the heart is rising. Increased pulmonary blood
flow occurs, which can result in pulmonary hypertension. This leads to a right ventricular
hypertrophy, which creates an increased right atrial pressure. Increased pressure often induces
right to left blood shunting that causes cyanosis to the patient and other symptoms such as heart
palpitations, dyspnea, and swelling of the legs, legs, or abdomen. Complications of atrial septal
defect can include: congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, paradoxical embolism, stroke, infective
endocarditis and even death. The prognosis varies depending on the size of the septum hole.
Small holes usually close as an individual grows, but those with wide holes in the atrial septum
may be vulnerable to symptoms and complications. Early identification and management must be
placed in important to mitigate potential issues and reduce mortality.

REFERENCES:

Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). (n.d.). Retrieved November 04, 2020, from
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/congenital-heart-defects/about-congenital-heart-
defects/atrial-septal-defect-asd

Congenital Heart Defects - Facts about Atrial Septal Defects. (2019, November 12). Retrieved
November 04, 2020, from https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/heartdefects/atrialseptaldefect.html