Symptoms of a Hole in the Heart in Children
Many children with ASD or VSD may not show symptoms initially. However, parents should look for:
- Poor weight gain or difficulty feeding in infants.
- Frequent respiratory or chest infections.
- Rapid breathing or shortness of breath during play.
- A heart murmur detected during a routine check-up.
My child has been diagnosed with a large VSD. Does this need surgery or can this close spontaneosly? What happens if I do not want to subject my child to the risk of surgery?
Large VSDs will not close spontaneously. They will need surgery by 3-6 months age. By delaying surgery, the patient will develop complications such as heart failure or pulmonary hypertension, and may become inoperable. Surgery is very safe, and is essential for the long term health of the child.
What is the best time to close an ASD?
Atrial septal defects need to be closed between 3 to 5 years of age, before the child starts class 1. Delay in closure into the second decade can sometimes lead to long term complications such as rhythm problems and pulmonary hypertension.
Treatment Options: From Device Closure to Surgery
Dr. Sen’s philosophy is to choose the least invasive and safest method possible for your child.
- Non-Surgical Device Closure (Interventional)
Many ASDs and some VSDs can be closed without open-heart surgery. Using a thin tube (catheter), Dr. Sen can place a “device” to seal the hole.
Benefits: No scars, 48-hour hospital stay, and rapid recovery.
- Surgical Repair
For larger or complex holes, surgical closure is the gold standard. Under Dr. Sen’s clinical leadership at NH SRCC Children’s Hospital, our surgical team ensures the highest safety standards and world-class outcomes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a heart hole always dangerous?
Not always. Small holes may close on their own. However, regular monitoring by a Pediatric Cardiologist is essential to decide which holes need treatment and which holes can be followed up.
What is the success rate of ASD/VSD closure?
With modern technology and experienced hands, the success rate for these procedures is extremely high, often exceeding 98–99%.
Does insurance cover pediatric heart procedures like ASD/VSD device closures?
This depends on the insurance policy and the insurance company. Most corporate insurance policies from your employer will cover the child’s congenital heart defect treatment. You will need to check with our hospital once the treatment plan is finalized.
How long will my child take to recover after a device closure?
We usually discharge the child home one day after the device closure. He/ she should rest at home for the next 7-10 days and can restart school after 2-3 weeks.
Will my child be able to play sports or lead a normal life after a device closure?
Yes. Device closures are curative procedures. We generally advise the child to rest at home for around 2 weeks after any device closure, after which they can resume all normal activities. They will lead a normal life and have a normal life-expectancy.
Are any medications required after device closure?
Yes. We give Aspirin for 6 months after any ASD or VSD device closure.
Book at NH SRCC Children’s Hospital or via the link, the NH Care App
or email me on supratim@drsupratimsen.com for guidance on how to set up a pediatric cardiac video consult.
Dr. Supratim Sen | Senior Consultant Interventional Pediatric Cardiologist | NH SRCC Children’s Hospital, Mumbai.
Clinic: NH SRCC Children’s Hospital. 1, 1A Haji Ali Park. K Khadye Marg. Mahalakshmi. Mumbai- 400034