Atrial septostomy

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Atrial septostomy is a medical procedure that creates a communication between the right and left atria. It is used to treat a variety of conditions, including congenital heart disease and pulmonary hypertension.

Procedure[edit | edit source]

The procedure is performed by inserting a catheter into the heart through a vein in the leg. The catheter is then guided to the atrial septum, the wall that separates the right and left atria. A balloon on the end of the catheter is inflated to create a hole in the septum, allowing blood to flow between the atria.

Indications[edit | edit source]

Atrial septostomy is indicated in patients with congenital heart disease who have a significant left-to-right shunt, or in patients with pulmonary hypertension who have a right-to-left shunt. It may also be used in patients with Eisenmenger syndrome, a condition in which the heart's structure is abnormal.

Risks[edit | edit source]

As with any invasive procedure, atrial septostomy carries risks. These include bleeding, infection, and damage to the heart. There is also a risk of stroke due to the possibility of a blood clot forming on the catheter and traveling to the brain.

See also[edit | edit source]

Atrial septostomy Resources

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