Echoes of Recovery: Echocardiographic and Quality of Life Transformations after Percutaneous Atrial Septal Defect Closure

Abstract Background: Atrial septal defects (ASDs) are among the most common congenital heart diseases in adults and may lead to right heart dilation, pulmonary hypertension, and arrhythmias if left untreated. This study aims to evaluate the short and mid term effects of percutaneous transcatheter closure of secundum ASDs on right ventricular (RV) structure and function, as well as on patient reported quality of life (QoL). Materials and Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care center and included 60 adult patients (mean age: 38.26 ± 12.58 years; 80% female) who underwent transcatheter closure of secundum ASDs. Eligible patients demonstrated significant left to right shunting (pulmonary to systemic flow ratio >1.5) with suitable septal anatomy. Exclusion criteria included severe pulmonary arterial hypertension, Eisenmenger physiology, and complex congenital heart disease. Comprehensive transthoracic echocardiography and the 12 item Short Form Health Survey (SF 12) were administered at baseline, 24 h, and 90 days post-procedure. The primary endpoints were echocardiographic indicators of RV remodeling; secondary endpoints focused on changes in QoL domains. Results: The mean ASD diameter was 21.85 ± 4.72 mm. By Day 90, RV basal diameter decreased from 45.00 mm to 36.93 mm ( P < 0.001), and RV outflow tract diameter reduced from 28.82 mm to 23.23 mm ( P < 0.001). RV fractional area change improved (32.75% to 35.20%, P = 0.022), and myocardial performance index declined from 0.52 to 0.36 ( P < 0.001). QoL significantly improved across physical, emotional, and social domains. Conclusions: Percutaneous ASD closure leads to significant right heart remodeling and improved functional and psychosocial outcomes within 3 months.