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Atrial septal defect
An atrial septal defect is an opening in the wall that separates the upper chambers of the heart. It is one of the most common congenital heart defects, which are structural problems that develop before a baby is born or at birth.
When an atrial septal defect is present, some oxygen-rich blood that should have been pumped to the body flows from one side of the heart to the other. This blood is then pumped to the lungs. This creates extra work for one side of the heart.
If an atrial septal defect is large, heart failure may occur, although this is not common in children. This defect also may be found in older children and adults.
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: October 12, 2009 |
| Medical Review: | John Pope, MD - Pediatrics Larry A. Latson, MD - Pediatric Cardiology | |
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