The wall that separates the right and left sides of the heart is known as the septum. When a hole, or septal defect, forms in the wall of the upper chambers of the heart, it is known as an atrial septal defect (ASD). This defect causes a disruption in the normal flow of blood through the heart and can cause major complications later in life. Most people with this condition have few, if any, symptoms.
Using advanced surgical technology, our physicians can perform this procedure using less invasive techniques versus using traditional methods. Most heart operations are performed with an incision made through the sternum or breastbone. However, surgeons at Presbyterian are able to treat some patients by using small incisions on the side of the chest to reach the heart between the patient's ribs.
Robotic-assisted Surgery
The da Vinci robotic system is the latest minimally invasive technique used to repair atrial septal defects. The system allows surgeons' hand movements to be more precise, allowing them to perform complex procedures through small surgical incisions.
