Article Translations: (Spanish)
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.
Learn the basics in 30 seconds.
Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor.
© 1995-2025 KidsHealth ® All rights reserved. Images provided by iStock, Getty Images, Corbis, Veer, Science Photo Library, Science Source Images, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com
Reach us 24/7 for patient referrals, consults, admissions and neonatal transport.
Home | Privacy policy & terms of use | Contact us
© 2025 Children’s Minnesota
Children’s Minnesota is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our tax identification number is 41-1754276.