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PubMed This is a summary of 92 peer-reviewed journal articles Updated
Cardiology

Navigating an Interatrial Communication Diagnosis

At a Glance

An interatrial communication is a connection between the heart's upper chambers, commonly known as an ASD or PFO. These are common, well-understood conditions that can be safely managed through active observation, catheter device closure, or minimally invasive surgical repair.

Welcome to the Interatrial Communication Resource Guide. Receiving a diagnosis of a heart “defect” or “hole in the heart” can be a deeply unsettling experience. This guide is designed to empower you with evidence-based information, translating complex medical terminology into clear, actionable knowledge so you can actively participate in your care.

An interatrial communication refers to a connection between the two upper chambers of the heart (the right and left atria) [1]. While they sound intimidating, these are incredibly common conditions, and the medical community has a very clear understanding of how to manage them safely and effectively.

The two primary types of interatrial communications are:

  • Atrial Septal Defect (ASD): A true hole or structural deficiency in the heart wall [1].
  • Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO): A flap-like opening that is a normal part of fetal development but failed to seal shut completely after birth [1].

This guide is broken down into several focused sections to help you navigate your journey from diagnosis to long-term care:

01

Understanding Your Heart's Connection: ASD and PFO

Start here to understand the fundamental biological differences between an ASD and a PFO, how common they are, and why doctors view their risks differently.

02

Recognizing the Signs: When a Connection Causes Symptoms

Learn about the physical signs that might indicate a heart connection is causing strain, from poor growth in children to exercise intolerance and neurological symptoms in adults.

03

The Heart's Blueprint: Types and Biology of "Holes"

Dive deeper into the specific subtypes of ASDs (like secundum, primum, and sinus venosus) and understand why the anatomical location of the hole dictates the treatment plan.

04

Decoding Your Imaging: How Doctors "See" the Hole

Empower yourself to read your own echocardiogram and imaging reports. Learn the essential vocabulary, understand the importance of the bubble study, and use our completeness checklist.

05

Treating the Connection: Observation, Devices, and Surgery

Explore the standard of care for these conditions, from “watch and wait” observation to minimally invasive catheter device closures and surgical repairs.

06

Life After Diagnosis: Monitoring and Moving Forward

Whether you are monitoring your condition or recovering from a closure procedure, learn about the healing process, short-term restrictions, long-term surveillance, and how to protect your heart health moving forward.

Common questions in this guide

What is an interatrial communication?
An interatrial communication is a connection or "hole" between the two upper chambers of the heart, known as the right and left atria. The two most common types are atrial septal defects (ASDs) and patent foramen ovales (PFOs).
What is the difference between an ASD and a PFO?
An atrial septal defect (ASD) is a true hole or structural deficiency where tissue is missing in the heart wall. In contrast, a patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a small, flap-like opening that is a normal part of fetal development but failed to seal shut completely after birth.
What are the signs and symptoms of a hole in the heart?
While some people have no symptoms, an interatrial communication can cause strain on the heart over time. In children, this may lead to poor growth. Adults might experience exercise intolerance, excessive fatigue, or neurological symptoms.
How is an interatrial communication treated?
Treatment options depend on the exact size, location, and type of the hole. Doctors may recommend "watch and wait" observation, close the hole using a minimally invasive catheter device, or, in some cases, perform surgical repair.
What kind of doctor treats interatrial communications?
Because these conditions affect the structure of the heart, care should be coordinated by a cardiologist. Depending on the complexity of your specific connection and your age, a specialist in adult congenital heart defects may be the best person to manage your long-term care.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Curated prompts to bring to your next appointment.

  1. 1.What type of interatrial communication do I have, and how does it affect my specific treatment plan?
  2. 2.Are there any immediate lifestyle changes I need to make based on my diagnosis?
  3. 3.Who should be the primary coordinator of my care moving forward—a general cardiologist, or a specialist in congenital heart defects?

Questions For You

Tap a prompt to share your answer — we'll use it plus this page's context to start a tailored conversation.

References

References (1)
  1. 1

    Patent Foramen Ovale-A Not So Innocuous Septal Atrial Defect in Adults.

    Romano V, Gallinoro CM, Mottola R, et al.

    Journal of cardiovascular development and disease 2021; (8(6)) doi:10.3390/jcdd8060060.

    PMID: 34070460

This guide provides general educational information about interatrial communications. It does not replace professional medical advice, and you should always consult your cardiologist regarding your specific heart anatomy and treatment plan.

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