atrial septal anuerysm w/shunting

I am a 49 year old woman in good health who was diagnosed with an ASD several years ago by echo which was then confirmed with a bubble study--In a follow up echo and bubble last week it appears that the septal area is anuerysmic(sp?) My cardiologist wants to schedule a TEE in several weeks--

I am otherwise healthy and would not like to live with the possible heightened stroke risk/ shortened life span,etc.. I am very interested in the study you all have done with the Helex Septal Occluder which just received FDA approval--I take an aspirin a day and do have some periods of PVC/extra beat activity that I take a low dose propanolol for if needed-

What do you usually recommend in this situation? Does it depend on size?What questions should I be asking?  

Since your facility seems to be on the cutting edge of this procedure,how would I go about getting a consult/appt and who would be the person to see? I have good health coverage-

Thanks fro your help!

Lillian

[Douglas Bogart, MD]

There are several devices available for closure.  It sounds like you have a patent foramen ovale(PFO) and not an ASD.  The TEE will answer that question and if you have an ASD then closure with either a device or surgery is likely indicated.  The TEE will give information that will determine if the defect can be closed with a device. If you have a PFO it is still not proven if the defect should be closed in a patient without prior neurological symptoms.  Based on the present evidence taking an aspirin is a reasonable strategy.