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– CardioSEAL™ Occluder
July 12, 2004
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In some cases, the "clamshell" eliminates the need for open-heart surgery
Heartland Regional Medical Center, Cardiologist Frank Lammoglia, M.D., F.A.C.C., uses the "Clamshell" to treat an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD). ASD is a congenital defect where the opening between the right and left atria, which is present during fetal development, does not close. Approximately four out of every 100,000 people have ASD.
Until the "Clamshell," the only way to close a hole in between the atria was with open-heart surgery. Now, with the CardioSeal device, the defect is closed using a catheter that is inserted in a vein the leg and then directed through the body into the heart. The "clamshell" covers the defect and allows the heart to mend itself.
What are the long-term effects of ASD?- The flow of blood from the left to the right atrium causes the right ventricle and the lungs to work harder, resulting in an enlargement of the right ventricle, and an increase in the pressure of the main arteries and the lungs.
- ASD can lead to shortness of breath and decrease exercise tolerance.
- ASD can cause abnormal heart rhythm.
What are the advantages of the "Clamshell v. Open-Heart surgery?"- Deep general anesthesia is not necessary
- No direct cutting or suturing of the heart
- Shorter recovery time
- Cosmetically better, no chest scar
Check out the Heart Center for more information on physicians and procedures.
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