Earlier, surgery was the only modality for treatment of congenital heart diseases,
but now defects like atrial septal defects, ventricular septal defects, patent
ductus arteriosus can be closed by non surgical means using devices and coils.
The non-surgical closure does not produce any scar and significantly shortens
the hospital stay without compromising on quality of repair or safety. Diseases
like coarctation of aorta and aortic stenosis can now be treated by balloon
dilatation.
Non-surgical closure of atrial septal, ventricular septal and patent ductus
arteriosus defects and balloon dilataton of aortic stenosis and coarctation
of aorta can be done under sedation. Some procedures like device closures or
interventions in newborns may require a short general anaesthesia. These procedures
usually require 30 to 45 minutes. The procedure involves passage of catheter
through arteries and veins in the groin. It does not produce any scar or incisions
on the chest.
How the suitability of patient for the procedure is assessed?
Before undertaking the procedure patient suitability is carefully assessed
by investigations like X-ray, electrocardiogram and echocardiograpyhy. Certain
blood tests are done prior to the procedure to rule out any associated infection
and screen for any kidney or liver disease. Ongoing infections (viral or bacterial)
are considered absolute contraindications to any procedure and the patients
are advised to wait till the infection is controlled. Very small babies or infants
are usually admitted a day prior to the procedure and kept under fasting 1-5
hours before performing the procedure. These babies are given intravenous fluids
and kept under special warmers to maintain appropriate temperature. Older children
and adults are called on the day of the procedure after having appropriate tests.
They are told to report to the hospital early in the morning after overnight
fasting. (DAY PROCEDURE)
