parents
What's an Atrial Septal Defect (ASD)? (Video)
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.
Medically reviewed by: KidsHealth Medical Experts
Date reviewed: February 2022
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice,
diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2025 The Nemours Foundation. KidsHealth® is a registered trademark of The Nemours Foundation. All rights reserved.
Images sourced by The Nemours Foundation and Getty Images.