Custom Medical Devices » Medical Conditions

LAA

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 05:46:18 +0000

LAA or Left Atrial Appendage is a part of the left upper chamber of the heart (left atrium). It has the shape of a pouch and is the place where 90% of clots can be formed in conditions where there is irregular blood flow. Atrial Fibrillation is such a condition. Closure of the left atrial appendage could prevent the formation of small clots and protect from stroke.

PDA

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:47:51 +0000

PDA or Patent Ductus Arteriosus is a tube connecting the aorta and the pulmonary artery. Normally, PDA’s exist during the fetal life, but they should close after birth. Persistent PDA’s can cause enlargement of the left side of the heart and infection of the heart (endocarditis). All PDAs should be closed.

VSD

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:46:03 +0000

VSD or Ventricular Septal Defect is an opening at the lower side of the heart (ventricles). Blood flows from the left ventricle into the right ventricle and to the lungs. Over time, the heart becomes enlarged, which can lead to heart failure. Increased blood flow to the lungs can also cause serious damage (pulmonary hypertension). In addition, VSD’s can become the site for infection of the heart (endocarditis). Some VSDs need to be closed.

PFO

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:45:48 +0000

PFO or Patent Foramen Ovale is a valve like opening between the upper chambers of the heart. It is normally open in the fetal life, but later closes in the majority of adults. Approximately 30% of adults have an open PFO. In some cases, blood or clots can cross from the right atrium to the left atrium, which can cause strokes. In these cases, occlusion of the opening could be used as a preventive therapy against strokes.

ASD

admin — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 04:44:37 +0000

ASD or Atrial Septal Defect is an opening between the upper chambers of the heart (atria). Blood flows from the left atrium into the right atrium, increasing the amount of blood going into the lungs. This opening requires correction since it can cause serious problems in the future.