Congenital Heart Surgery

Expert Care for Adults with Congenital Heart Defects

Our surgeons and interventional cardiologists perform procedures to repair abnormal heart tissue caused by congenital heart defects. These procedures are performed on people with conditions such as atrial septal defect (ASD), patent foramen ovale (PFO) and ventricular septal defect (VSD). Treatment for adult congenital heart defects may lower the risk of arrhythmias, heart failure, pulmonary hypertension and stroke. Additionally, medications may be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms or control other conditions. Not all congenital heart defects require surgical intervention. However, if repair is warranted, it typically leads to better long-term outcomes for patients and helps guard against future complications.

If your doctor has diagnosed you with a congenital heart defect, Wellstar’s team of board-certified physicians can help you determine the best treatment for you. Our cardiologists, interventional cardiologists, cardiovascular surgeons, nurses, and clinical support team work together to help you live your best life.

Open heart surgery to treat atrial septal defect (ASD)

An ASD is a hole in the wall that divides the heart’s top two chambers. The cardiac surgeon will make an incision through the chest wall to visualize the defect. A patch is then utilized to close or seal off the hole.

Open heart surgery to treat patent foramen ovale (PFO)

A PFO is a small, open flap between the heart’s upper two chambers. Typically, this closes after birth, but for some patients, it does not close and is discovered in adulthood. This is a common congenital defect, with 25-30% of the population having one. Open heart surgery to repair the hole is typically only performed in combination with another heart surgery.

Open heart surgery to treat ventricular septal defect (VSD)

A VSD is a hole or opening that forms in the wall between the heart's two lower chambers. A cardiovascular surgeon can close the hole with a patch or stitches.

Minimally-invasive ASD & PFO Closure

Your cardiac surgeon may feel open heart surgery is unnecessary and that the defect can be closed through a minimally invasive transcatheter procedure.

Cardiac rehabilitation after surgery

To assist in regaining your strength after surgery, your cardiac surgeon may recommend Cardiac Rehab at one of Wellstar’s many outpatient locations. The Cardiac Rehab team can work with you to develop an exercise regimen, monitor you during your exercise sessions and provide support and education to help you live a healthier life.


Learn about the highly skilled surgical care you'll receive through Wellstar's cardiovascular surgery program.