About Atrial Septal Defect Closure
An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition: a hole in the wall (septum) between the two upper chambers of the heart.
This opening allows oxygen-rich blood to mix with oxygen-poor blood, putting extra strain on the heart and lungs. If left untreated, ASD may lead to complications such as pulmonary hypertension, irregular heart rhythms, or heart failure.
Traditional vs Minimally Invasive Options
Open-Heart ASD Surgery: Surgeon makes chest incision and closes the hole with stitches or a patch. Used for larger or complex defects. Hospital stay: 5-7 days.
Catheter-Based Device Closure (Minimally Invasive): Device delivered through a catheter via a vein in the groin, without opening the chest. Performed under conscious sedation or light anaesthesia. Procedure takes 1-2 hours. Hospital stay: 1-2 days only.
What partner hospitals offer
- Both Surgical and Catheter Options: Access to traditional repair and minimally invasive device closure
- Congenital Heart Specialists: Paediatric and adult congenital cardiologists
- Closure Devices: ASD closure devices from established international manufacturers
- Family-Friendly Care: Support for international families travelling with children
Outcomes depend on your condition and the surgeon. Ask the treating hospital for its own outcome data before you decide.
Recovery & Travel Timeline
Open-Heart ASD Surgery
- Hospital Stay: 5-7 days
- Initial Recovery: 4-6 weeks
- Fit to Fly: 4-6 weeks with medical clearance
- Full Physical Recovery: 6-8 weeks
- Sternum Healing: 8-12 weeks
Catheter-Based Device Closure
- Hospital Stay: 1-2 days
- Back to Light Activities: 3-5 days
- Resume Work/School: 1 week
- Fit to Fly: usually about 2 weeks for international flights, as your cardiologist decides
- Full Recovery: 1-2 weeks
For device closure, hospitals usually advise a total stay in India of 2-3 weeks to allow follow-up consultations; after open surgery, plan for 4-6 weeks.
Cost in India
Costs depend on the hospital, the procedure and your reports. The indicative range on this page is a guide only; the hospital’s written estimate is the figure to rely on, and you pay the hospital directly.
