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What's an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)? (Video)

Medically reviewed by: KidsHealth Medical Experts

What's an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)?

An atrial septal defect (ASD) — sometimes called a hole in the heart — is a heart defect some babies are born with. There's an abnormal opening in the dividing wall between the upper filling chambers of the heart (the atria).

Most ASDs are diagnosed and treated successfully with few or no problems.

  • 30-Second Summary: Atrial Septal Defect

    30-Second Summary: Atrial Septal Defect

    Learn the basics in 30 seconds.

Medically reviewed by: KidsHealth Medical Experts
Date reviewed: February 2022