Balloon septostomy
Balloon septostomy is a medical procedure used to create or enlarge an opening between the atria of the heart. This procedure is commonly performed in infants with certain types of congenital heart defects, such as transposition of the great arteries (TGA), where it is crucial to allow for adequate mixing of oxygenated and deoxygenated blood.
Indications[edit | edit source]
Balloon septostomy is primarily indicated in cases of congenital heart disease where there is a need to improve oxygenation by allowing better mixing of blood between the right and left atria. The most common indication is transposition of the great arteries, but it may also be used in other conditions such as tricuspid atresia and hypoplastic left heart syndrome.
Procedure[edit | edit source]
The procedure is typically performed in a cardiac catheterization laboratory. A catheter with a balloon at its tip is inserted through a vein and guided into the heart. Once the catheter reaches the foramen ovale or an existing atrial septal defect, the balloon is inflated and then pulled back through the opening, enlarging it. This allows for better mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood, which is essential for the survival of infants with certain heart defects.
Complications[edit | edit source]
While balloon septostomy is generally considered safe, it does carry some risks. Potential complications include:
- Arrhythmias
- Perforation of the heart or blood vessels
- Infection
- Bleeding
Post-procedure Care[edit | edit source]
After the procedure, patients are typically monitored in a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Follow-up care includes echocardiography to assess the effectiveness of the septostomy and to monitor for any complications.
History[edit | edit source]
The procedure was first described by Dr. William Rashkind in 1966 and is sometimes referred to as the Rashkind procedure. It has since become a standard treatment for certain congenital heart defects.
See also[edit | edit source]
- Atrial septal defect
- Congenital heart defect
- Cardiac catheterization
- Transposition of the great arteries
References[edit | edit source]
External links[edit | edit source]
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