Atrial septal aneurysm without interruption. Heart aneurysm in newborns - is it worth it to panic? Etiological mechanism of development

The interatrial septum (IAS) is the wall that separates the left and right atrium. Normally, in adults, these two chambers of the heart are not directly connected to each other. Blood from the right atrium enters the right ventricle, from where it is pushed into the pulmonary arteries. In the lungs, it is enriched with oxygen and enters the left atrium through the pulmonary veins.

If in an infant the main cause of the development of pathology is a consequence of intrauterine damage and the development of infectious diseases in the mother, then an aneurysm of the interatrial septum in adults with a manifestation in adulthood is the result of myocardial infarction, heart failure.

1Mechanisms of aneurysm formation

In the prenatal period in the fetal body in the septum between the atria, there is an oval window. Through this window, blood is discharged from the left atrium to the right. Thus, the blood flow does not capture the pulmonary circulation, since during this period there is no need for the lungs to work.

After birth, the baby's lungs begin to function, and the foramen ovale closes (overgrows). If the window does not fully close, thin connective tissue forms in this place, or a message remains between the atria.

Causes

1) Congenital. Genetic (hereditary) disorder, which is manifested by a violation of the development of connective tissue even in the prenatal period. It occurs in 80% of young people and can be both systemic and local (isolated) in nature.

With systemic involvement of connective tissue, changes can be observed in many organs and systems - kidneys, eyes, nervous system, cardiovascular system. Often an aneurysm is combined with vegetovascular dystonia. With the local nature of involvement, the process affects only the interatrial septum. The second option is much less common.

2) Acquired.

Due to the fact that the exact reasons for the development of this type of anomaly by medical science have not been established, we can say that this form of deviation can appear in any person, not only in fetal development, but also at any period of his life. Doctors still stop their attention on two main factors in the formation of an aneurysm of the septum of the heart:

• heredity - often the heart acts as the organs of a person, which is completely transmitted to him from one of his parents, retaining defects and essential features;
• deviation in the development of connective tissue - the so-called tissue dysplasia, affecting the formation of fibrous structures and connective fluid, outwardly representing atypical bends in many body systems; this feature can be caused by past infections of a pregnant woman or completely unexplained reasons.

An aneurysm of the interatrial septum from the point of view of anatomy is a protrusion of the wall of the myocardium between the atria in one direction or another. The wall usually prolapses in the region of the so-called oval fossa, which remains after the overgrowth of the oval window, since there the heart muscle is not strong enough and, under adverse conditions, is able to protrude.

In the fetus, the pulmonary circulation does not function, because the development of the breathing process is possible only after the birth of the baby. Gas exchange in utero is supported by a functioning placenta, and the oval window located in the septum between the atria is necessary to redirect blood from the right atrium to the left and then a large circle.

After birth, the hole closes almost immediately, the newborn breathes with its own lungs, and blood from one atrium to another no longer enters.

Often, neonatologists observe untimely closure of the oval window, which can function for quite a long time - up to a year or more. In such cases, an insufficiently strong myocardium is more likely to protrude in one direction or another under the influence of blood flow pressure.

The combination of an aneurysm with a septal defect is more typical than an isolated MP aneurysm, although the latter option is also possible.

Causes of aneurysm of the MPP are not precisely established, and large-scale studies in this area have not been conducted. The role of both external and internal factors is assumed. This may be an infection transferred during pregnancy, adverse environmental conditions. The role of stress, lack of vitamins in the expectant mother, intrauterine hypoxia is not excluded.

Despite the lack of reliable data on the etiology of MP aneurysm, most scientists still tend to agree that the development of connective tissue in the prenatal period is the key to the appearance of an anomaly.

The connective tissue basis of the heart may be immature, not strong enough, collagen fibers may be insufficient or their ratio may be changed. If these phenomena are not hereditary, but are provoked by individual developmental characteristics, then, most likely, as the child grows, the heart will return to normal. With hereditary connective tissue dysplasia, the situation is much worse: three or more anomalies or more severe defects are found in the heart, and there are also signs of connective tissue dysplasia in other organs.

Causes and types of MP aneurysm

Aneurysm of the interatrial septum is divided into 3 types:

1. R-type. The septum protrudes towards the right atrium.
2. R-L-type. The bulging of the septum goes first to the right and then to the left.
3. L-R type. The septum moves to the left and then to the right.

Depending on the presence of a hole in the partition:

1. Presence of communication of the left and right atria. In this case, there is a discharge of blood into the right atrium.
2. No message.

There are three different forms of this minor anomaly of the heart, which depend on the direction of the bulging between the atria.

1. Saccular protrusion occurs in the direction from the left atrium to the right - the variant is more common than others, since higher pressure in the left atrium creates prerequisites for this.
2. The bulging of the wall between the atria has the opposite direction, that is, from right to left - a variant is possible with increased pressure in the cavity of the right atrium as a result of an overload of the right heart.
3. S-shaped protrusion, which implies the existence of 2 protrusions at the same time in different directions.

In case of aneurysm of the MPS at the initial stages, the patient most often does not feel any changes in his body, since the process of hemodynamics does not change. This situation should not cause concern and does not require specialized treatment.

Given the anatomical features of the wall in the atrial region, there are few pathology options:

• aneurysm with a protrusion from the left atrium to the right (the correct type of blood circulation is more pronounced in the left side of the heart);
• bulging from the right to the left atrial chamber of the heart;
• S-shaped aneurysm, when one part of the interatrial wall is expanded to the left, and the other to the right.

Any aneurysm of the interatrial septum can lead to disruption of blood flow, and what is most unpleasant - creates conditions for thrombosis. This is especially pronounced with an increase in the size of the bulge exceeding 1 cm.

Aneurysm in newborns and children

In childhood and at an early stage of the disease, there are usually no complaints, and the defect is discovered by chance during the next examination. When listening to such a heart, the doctor may note minor systolic murmurs that increase with exercise, tachycardia, and heavy breathing.

However, with increased attention to the condition of the child, one can suspect the presence of an aneurysm in the MPP according to the following signs:

• predisposition to viral infections with the normal development of the immune system;
• difficulty in gaining weight;
• lack of tolerance for physical activity;
• slow physical and psycho-emotional development of the child;
• on visual medical examination, there may be visible signs of a protrusion of the heart on the surface of the chest.

A urinary tract aneurysm without shunting is less pronounced and, if the disease does not worsen, may not show symptoms for a person's entire life. When a hole is formed in the septum, even with its small size, there is a significant violation of blood flow, in which a small amount of blood is discharged into the right atrium.

An aneurysm of the interventricular septum, similarly when ruptured, can significantly disrupt the natural blood flow, increasing the load on certain parts of the heart.

Symptoms of a septal aneurysm in adults

Whether an atrial septal aneurysm appears or not depends on a number of factors:

For a long time, an aneurysm with a hole is asymptomatic in adults. This is due to the fact that for a long time the body can adapt to such a load.

Functional disorders of the heart may be absent until adulthood. The only sign at this age may be a slight lag in physical development.

In the third decade of life, slight fatigue may appear.

Treatment is medical or surgical. Conservative methods are prescribed for the development of chronic aneurysm, medications are prescribed to normalize pressure, regulate the work of the heart muscle.

Regardless of the age of the patient, the following groups of drugs are prescribed:

• vitamins;
• trace elements (magnesium, zinc, copper);
• drugs to normalize the heart rhythm, prevent thrombosis, stimulate collagen synthesis.

The operation is recommended to be done with a high probability of rupture of the heart muscle, acute (subacute) course of the disease and with cardiac aortic aneurysm. It is performed on an open heart valve using equipment for cardiopulmonary bypass.

The type of operation directly depends on the size of the curved septum, the degree of deformation. The choice of therapy depends on age.

Patients should not refuse surgery if the surgeon insists on doing it.

Treatment is not specific. If an operation is not indicated, then patients need to be observed periodically, at least 2 times a year, by a therapist or a cardiologist, once a year the patient must undergo an ultrasound of the heart.

To control the condition, cardiological medicine recommends that patients adhere to preventive measures:

• combine the regime of work and rest;
• do not overload yourself emotionally;
• engage in vigorous sports;
• keep blood pressure levels under control;
• timely fight infection, acute respiratory infections;
• maintain a normal immune system;
• do not use folk remedies, which is dangerous for cardiac pathologies.

The operation is indicated for an aneurysm, if its size has reached 10 mm in diameter and above, when violations of the heart functions are expressed. The main technique in surgery is aimed at strengthening the aneurysm by closing the hole in the septum with the imposition of a synthetic material in the form of a patch.

For this, special devices are used for endoscopy to close the window or suturing in the presence of a small hole.

With the development of a person and the wear and tear of his body by bad habits, ecology, malnutrition and other negative factors, the symptoms of an intercardiac aneurysm are aggravated, manifesting themselves as more obvious ailments:

• wandering pains within the chest;
• fatigue and a noticeable decrease in performance;
• shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.

In cases of rupture of the septum and the acute course of the disease in adults, a sharp unrelenting pain in the heart and drops in blood pressure are possible.

Symptoms of an aneurysm

Signs of an aneurysm may be mild or absent. Often the disease occurs without any symptoms.

The nature of the patient's sensations is affected by the size of the protrusion, the age of the person, the size of the oval window. In most cases, the symptoms are similar to the manifestation of heart failure, heart attack or overwork, and the patient does not seek help in a timely manner.

The following symptoms should be alarming:

• Pain in the region of the heart - have a paroxysmal character;
• Increased fatigue, as blood circulation and oxygen supply to the body are disturbed;
• Feeling of discomfort in the chest area - such a symptom can tell about many pathologies;
• heart rhythm failures;
• Inability to endure prolonged physical exertion - shortness of breath and fatigue appear.

In addition, breathing problems may appear, including coughing - an increased volume of blood enters the lungs, and the load on blood vessels and capillaries increases.

At the very beginning of the development of aneurysm of the urinary tract in children, there are no pronounced signs of the disease and most often the defect is diagnosed during the examination of the child. Experts say that such a disease does not need any treatment, and it will simply be enough to be under the control of a cardiologist.

Symptoms of the disease in children

The development of MP aneurysm in a child has its own manifestations:

• the pathological condition of the interatrial septum has an inhibitory effect on the physical and mental development of the baby, and there are also problems with weight gain;
• children with this pathology are more likely to suffer from viral diseases, regardless of the season;
• with the age of the child, during preventive examinations, the pediatrician is increasingly diagnosed with retarded growth of the child, impaired development of the genital area and poor health after physical activity;
• in some cases, as a result of muscle atrophy and an enlarged right ventricle, a protrusion of the heart in the chest area can be seen on visual examination;
• with any physical activity with aneurysm of the MPS, an increase in the heart murmur is noted.

At the site of the localization of the aneurysm, a hole is formed, which causes a violation of blood flow. This means that with each systolic heartbeat, blood flows from the left atrium into the left ventricle, and also slightly discharges into the right atrium.

The presence of such a reset causes an increased load on the right sections of the heart muscle and the development of compensatory hypertrophy of the right ventricle and atrium occurs. Signs of pulmonary hypertension begin to appear, which is associated with the flow of a large volume of blood into the lungs and a large load on the vessels.

Symptoms of the disease in adults

A frequent occurrence in adults is the rupture of an aneurysm as a result of heavy physical exertion, various injuries and stresses. In the situation when the rupture of the aneurysm was avoided, the following symptoms are observed:

• pain in the region of the heart;
• discomfort of the whole body;
• problems with the work of the heart;
• feeling of weakness during prolonged physical exertion.

An atrial septal aneurysm is a small anomaly of the heart, which is a bulge (bulging) of the thinned septum between the two atria. Pathology, as a rule, with aneurysm of the MPS does not disrupt the functioning of the heart and the circulatory process, it is most often detected by chance in children at an early age.

Thus, it becomes clear what an aneurysm is. It is important to know that the bulging of the wall between the atria does not in itself imply a discharge of blood from one cavity to another, that is, an MPP aneurysm without a discharge is a normal aneurysm, not complicated by rupture.

With the discharge of blood, it can only be if a defect (hole) is formed between the left and right atrium. In this case, part of the blood from the left atrium will flow into the right, creating an increased load on it.

MPP aneurysm according to the classification of microbial 10 has the code designation I25.3.

Diagnostic methods

As mentioned earlier, aneurysm of the urinary tract is a congenital anomaly. Therefore, it can be detected without difficulty even in childhood. Another situation is observed if it has been progressively stretched, then for the first time it can be seen at a more mature age.

The main methods for diagnosing an aneurysm are:

When the aneurysm is complemented by the existence of an open foramen ovale, the following methods may be informative:

Instrumental diagnostics can also be supplemented by the following methods:

Identification of an aneurysm of the interatrial septum is carried out in a medical institution. The patient undergoes an initial medical examination, during which other possible diseases are excluded. A comprehensive examination is carried out:

• Ultrasound of the heart is the most common way to identify pathology and determine its form;
• ECG is a simple method during which it is possible to find heart rhythm disturbances, exclude arrhythmia;
• X-ray - the picture shows a specific symptom - the roots of the lungs pulsate;
• CT scan;
• Catheterization of cardiac chambers.

Additionally, a laboratory blood test for inflammatory processes is carried out. It is important that the prognosis and treatment is carried out by an experienced cardiologist, since the disease is dangerous and carries many risks.

The leading diagnostic method for detecting aneurysm of the urinary tract is ultrasound of the heart with Doppler sonography. In the event that there is a suspicion of an anomaly in the aneurysm or the development of other anomalies on the heart, an additional examination is prescribed. For these purposes, carry out:

• CT scan;
• performing ultrasound through the esophagus;
• cardiac catheterization.

Usually, such a disease is easily diagnosed in a newborn, since the curvature of the atrial septum is clearly visible.

Prior to the development of echocardiography, IAS aneurysms were only detected during autopsy. Currently, to detect this pathology, transesophageal echocardiography is most often used, which allows visualizing the structure of the MPS in detail.

During conventional transthoracic echocardiography, in most cases, this pathology cannot be detected. In addition, MP aneurysm can be detected during cardiac catheterization, computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.

The diagnosis is established mainly in newborns. The following survey methods are used:

• electrocardiography;
• Echocardiography with doplegraphy;
• Transesophageal ECHO-KG;
• Cardiac catheterization.

The main diagnostic method is cardiac ultrasound using Doppler, since this examination allows not only to identify the main defect and its localization, but also to measure its size and visualize the concomitant possible anomalies in the heart, which often accompanies an MPS aneurysm.

The most common method for detecting this pathology is Doppler ultrasound. It allows not only to detect the septal defect itself, but also to assess its size and changes in the cavities of the heart that occurred due to the aneurysm (for example, an increase in the size of the right ventricle, which is a clear sign of overload of the right heart).

Additional diagnostic methods are:

• Transesophageal ultrasound.
• Computed tomography of the heart.
• Cardiac catheterization through the femoral artery.

Such an examination is prescribed if the patient has concomitant cardiac anomalies, or if the ultrasound of the heart was uninformative.

Do not forget about laboratory research methods, these include:

1. General and clinical analyzes of urine and blood.
2. Blood chemistry.

The results of laboratory diagnostics make it possible to detect diseases that could be a complication of an aneurysm or its trigger.

In adults, an aneurysm can be detected on electrocardiographic examination. This occurs when the protrusion becomes large, which leads to disruption of the heart muscle. It is these violations that are displayed on the ECG tape.

To identify an aneurysm and the presence of an open oval window, doctors use instrumental diagnostic methods:

• transthoracic and transesophageal catheterization of the cardiac chambers.

The main research method is ultrasound and echocardiography of the heart, which can detect protrusion of the interatrial septum.

Additional diagnostic methods include:

• chest x-ray, when the picture shows a pulsation of the roots of the lungs;
• An ECG to determine how many beats the heart makes per minute and how much the obtained indicators differ from the established norms, in order to identify signs of atrial fibrillation.

Treatment

Treatment of aneurysm in adults can be either medical or surgical.1) Medical treatment is non-specific. It is used even in the case when surgical treatment is not indicated. The drugs that can be used belong to different groups.

However, this treatment is non-specific. As a rule, patients who do not need surgical treatment need constant monitoring by a cardiologist or internist. They should have an annual cardiac ultrasound to monitor the condition of the aneurysm.

Patients are recommended general strengthening measures. It is advisable to observe the regime of work and rest, to avoid emotional and physical overload. It is important to control blood pressure levels. An important point is also the prevention of infections that have a negative effect on the body.

2) Surgical treatment is indicated for an aneurysm larger than 10 mm and accompanied by impaired cardiac function. The main method of surgical intervention is to strengthen the aneurysm with synthetic material. If there is a hole in the septum, it can be closed in the following ways:

Aneurysm of the membranous part of the interventricular septum is treated in the same way as other types of similar pathologies. After identifying the disease, drug treatment is usually prescribed, during which the doctor monitors the growth of the aneurysm. The following drugs are used:

• Drugs that provoke the production of collagen are needed to strengthen the walls of blood vessels;
• B vitamins;
• Trace elements, including zinc and copper;
• Medications to relieve blood pressure if the patient is prone to hypertension;
• Drugs that dissolve blood clots;
• Medicines to equalize the heart rhythm.

The drug method is used for small pathologies, but if accelerated growth is noted, surgical intervention is indispensable. During the operation, the doctor's task is to strengthen the walls of the aneurysm. The following methods apply:

• A synthetic patch is placed;
• Sutures are placed through a small hole;
• The foramen ovale is closed with an endoscope.

Surgical treatment does not exclude the use of medications during the rehabilitation period. You will also have to drink drugs that strengthen blood vessels, vitamins and minerals. Compliance with all the recommendations and prescriptions of the doctor is required for the treatment to be successful.

In the early stages of its development, anomalies do not require any special treatment. The patient only needs to be observed by a cardiologist and undergo periodic monitoring of his condition. Constant monitoring of the MPP and the absence of complications serve as a favorable prognosis that the patient will not have health complaints in the future throughout his life.

In the event that aneurysm growth is diagnosed and there is a threat of its rupture, a detailed examination of the patient is prescribed in the inpatient cardiology department, and based on the results obtained, a decision is made on the method of treating the patient.

Most often, a decision is made to refuse surgical intervention, since possible complications after it can pose a greater threat to the life of the patient than the rupture of the aneurysm itself. And even when an aneurysm ruptures, specialists do not rush to perform the operation and monitor the patient.

Only in the case when the threat of a large discharge of blood develops, which can lead to the development of pulmonary hypertension, do they decide to perform a surgical intervention. When it is carried out, the rupture site and plasticity of the vessel wall are sutured with the help of special synthetic materials.

Patients with uncomplicated and isolated SAS aneurysms do not need specific treatment, they need simple observation. They need to be examined for the presence of a thrombus in the aneurysm.

If there is a risk of stroke, prophylactic treatment with antiplatelet agents or anticoagulants is prescribed, and surgical or percutaneous repair of the defect is also performed. In the case of the development of rhythm disturbances, specific antiarrhythmic therapy is carried out, the type of which is chosen by the doctor.

This pathology is one of the minor anomalies in the development of the heart. In general, an aneurysm is characterized by a change in the walls of a large vessel, resulting in a protrusion of a separate area. In the prenatal period, it can develop due to improper development of the vascular system.

With an aneurysm of the interatrial septum, there is a bulging of the wall towards the right or left atrium in a place located at the level of the oval window. It is detected by ultrasound of the heart and electrocardiogram, usually in newborns. Additional diagnostics, including differential, are required for confirmation.

In the presence of a diagnosis of aneurysm of the urinary tract, the treatment tactics are selected depending on the severity of the process and the presence of complications. Treatment can be conservative or surgical.

Patients who have a small protrusion (up to 10 millimeters) without complications, if it does not interfere with the work of the heart, are treated conservatively. They are registered and observed by a therapist and a cardiologist.

Atrial septal aneurysm requires constant monitoring and control, therefore, diagnostic measures are periodically carried out, which include electrocardiographic and ultrasound studies.

Patients may be given anticoagulants (eg, aspirin) to prevent blood clots if there are no contraindications.

In the case when there is a risk of rupture of a thinned septum, a more thorough examination in a hospital setting is necessary. After that, the cardiologist and cardiac surgeon determine the further tactics of treatment. The operation is performed extremely rarely, preference is given to expectant tactics and observation of the patient.

If a rupture occurs, then using diagnostic methods determine the size of the resulting defect. In the case when the defect is insignificant, the patient continues to observe and monitor the size of the defect.

Having figured out what an aneurysm is, attention should be paid to its treatment with traditional and folk remedies, as well as preventive measures to reduce the unpleasant symptoms of an anomaly.

In the early and non-advanced stages of the disease and with a standard clinical picture, as a rule, an atrial septal aneurysm is not dangerous, and patients do not require either medication or, moreover, surgical treatment.

However, in cases where the patient is oppressed by unpleasant general symptoms and frequent ailments, therapy involves the use of the following types of drugs:

• vitamins and microelements, in particular, indispensable for the work of the heart muscle Potassium and Magnesium, Vitamins B, enriching the blood with oxygen;
• medicines that affect the regulation of heart rate in tachycardia and arrhythmias;
• sedatives and sedatives;
• blood thinners - in cases of pulmonary hypertension.

With a significant reset of blood flow and disruption of the heart in adults, surgical procedures may be recommended. In case of destruction or rupture of the aneurysm, patients are prescribed an operation to introduce a safe artificial septum, which perfectly replaces the natural barrier.

Therapy

Before treating a child, he must undergo certain diagnostic procedures:

• Auscultation - listening to the heart with a stethoscope. This device will allow you to hear noises if there is a possibility of an anomaly;
• ECG. It is performed to check the work of the heart, makes it possible to detect rhythm disturbances;
• ultrasound. This diagnostic method is safe and quite informative. It allows you to detect bulging of the interatrial septum, as well as to determine fluctuations in the cardiac cycle.

Treatment depends on the rate of growth and increase in the size of the formation. With the progression of the disease, the patient is shown surgical intervention, which involves replacing the damaged area of ​​the vessel with an artificial graft.

Small aneurysms rarely lead to rupture of the heart vessel, so they can be treated with drugs. Drug therapy includes antihypertensive drugs, which are also used to stabilize blood pressure.

Therapeutic measures should be aimed at normalizing the work of the heart muscle, establishing a rhythm, and improving metabolic processes in the myocardium.

Treatment is not complete without magnesium preparations. The role of this trace element in the formation of collagen fibers is difficult to overestimate. Magnesium has an antiarrhythmic effect, promotes contraction and relaxation of heart cells. That is why it is included in complex therapy for rhythm disturbances.

Treatment with magnesium preparations consists in taking Magnerot three times at a dosage of 0.5 g at a time. The duration of such therapy is 1 week. After that, take 25 g of this drug for 5 weeks. It also requires the use of Magne B6. The course of treatment is 1.5-2 months. In this case, the dosage depends on the weight of the child.

For antioxidant protection and membrane stabilizing effect, L-carnitine, Cyto-Mac, Coenzyme Q10 are used. Metabolic therapy can last about 1.5 months. Moreover, it must be repeated several times a year, as a rule, two or three are enough.

It is also possible to use beta-blockers, glycosides and anticoagulants. The first contribute to a decrease in heart rate. Glycosides and anticoagulants may be prescribed at the preoperative stage.

Additionally, non-drug treatment should be followed, the essence of which is as follows:

• It is necessary to properly organize the daily routine of the child, provide him with normal sleep, walks in the fresh air, good rest.
• Particular attention should be paid to the nutrition of the baby, it should be balanced and as healthy as possible.
• It will be useful to carry out hydrotherapy or balneotherapy.
• Different types of massage have a very good effect.
• Physiotherapy will also benefit, especially when it comes to electrophoresis using magnesium.

Small aneurysms can be treated with folk remedies. But they should be used only under the supervision of the attending physician. In no case should you conduct experiments on your own, especially if the pathological formation has reached a large size.

Complications

In some cases, aneurysm of the interatrial septum can behave quite calmly and not pose a threat to the body if its size is small. However, its existence in adults may be accompanied by the following factors:

1. Violation of the heart rhythm.
2. thromboembolic complications. This complication is often observed when an atrial septal aneurysm is associated with a communication between the atria. Conditions are created for the swirl of blood flow in the region of the hole. This leads to the formation of blood clots, which can enter the brain through the bloodstream. As a result, a life-threatening condition can develop - blockage of cerebral vessels and, as a result, a stroke.
3. Aneurysm rupture. This complication can occur when the disease accompanies high blood pressure. This is, of course, an unfortunate fact. As a result of various emotional and physical overloads, a rupture of the septum may occur against the background of hypertension.

   Given that the pressure in the atria is much lower than in the ventricles, the rupture does not lead to the death of the patient. However, this condition can significantly worsen the patient's condition. There are signs of heart failure that reduce the quality of life of the patient.

Many patients with a diagnosis of MP aneurysm have an increased fear that it may rupture; in fact, this concern is in vain. With a mild form of MP aneurysm, without relief, the pressure in both atria does not have such power to break the wall.

MP aneurysm can be complicated by two conditions:

1. Rupture of an aneurysm with the formation of a defect in the wall between the atria and shunting of blood.
2. The formation of blood clots with their subsequent separation and the development of heart attacks and strokes.

The tactics of treating this pathology depends on the time of development and the presence of complications.

So, in the early stages, treatment is not a necessary measure for such a small anomaly of the heart. The only thing to do in such cases is to perform a dispensary examination by a cardiologist.

If there is a threat of rupture or a direct rupture of the aneurysm between the atria, then the treatment tactics are chosen individually. The question is whether the operation should be performed

The surgical method is used extremely rarely, since an intervention on an open heart entails more consequences than a defect caused by an aneurysm rupture. If a defect has formed with the collection of blood into the right ventricle and pulmonary hypertension has developed, which is accompanied by a serious condition, a decision is made to perform an operation.

It consists in suturing the formed defect, as well as plastics of the vascular wall.

Atrial septal aneurysm does not pose a significant risk to human health, even if it ruptures. Doctors boldly assure that the pressure in the atria is low enough for a potential rupture and therefore is unlikely.

However, even rupture of the septum and mixing of blood flows cannot have a significant impact on the functioning of the cardiovascular system. Only severe forms of rupture can pose a serious danger in the presence of other pathologies of the patient's heart muscle or other diseases that can aggravate a person's condition.

So, in rare cases, a violation of the blood circulation of the brain and the onset of a stroke are possible with obvious tendencies to thrombosis.

In general, registration with a cardiologist and an annual ultrasound diagnosis of the heart are quite sufficient preventive measures to ensure the absolute health of a person with a congenital anomaly.

Prevention of MPP aneurysm

When you have found out what an atrial septal aneurysm is, how difficult it will be to diagnose and treat, you should think about preventive measures. They will reduce the risk of developing pathology, as well as facilitate the course of the disease if the aneurysm has already formed. The following measures must be observed:

• Take infectious diseases seriously - any cold or flu must be treated urgently, as they can accelerate the growth of the neoplasm. It is your right to consult a doctor or not, but it is better to carry out such treatment under the supervision of a specialist;
• Treat a cough immediately - even such a harmless disease can lead to rupture of the walls, it would be better to do an examination during this period;
• Completely give up bad habits, which will positively affect not only the work of the heart, but also the whole body;
• Eat a nutritious and balanced diet. You will have to remove harmful fatty foods from the diet, as it contributes to the formation of blood clots and plaques in the vessels, and since the blood flow is already disturbed, an additional deviation is unacceptable;
• Control the development of atherosclerosis, pressure and weight. If necessary, use drugs prescribed by a doctor.

In addition, moderate exercise, a lack of stress, and a precise daily routine with enough time for sleep and rest will help reduce the risk of illness or complications.

MPA aneurysm is a pathology that can form in a person of any age, proceeding without symptoms. But the absence of symptoms does not mean that the disease is not dangerous, there is always a risk of rupture or complications. So the patient should regularly undergo examinations to identify aneurysms and other defects in the functioning of the heart or circulatory system.

If a patient is diagnosed with an atrial aneurysm, he should avoid excessive physical exertion throughout his life.

Hello. My daughter is currently 5 and a half years old.

We are registered with a cardiologist with a diagnosis of LLC. At 1 year, the window was 2 mm in size.

In 4 years - It became 1.7 mm. I was delighted - I thought it began to decrease.

But at 5 years old, the size became already 3 mm. From the conclusion of the last echo-dopplerography.

» the size of the chambers of the heart, the indicators of the general contractility of the left ventricle are within the normal range. FV 63%.

open oval. 3 mm window with left-right reset.

The interatrial septum aneurysmically prolapses into the right atrium throughout the entire length of 23*6 mm. Physiological mitral and tricuspid regurgitation.

Heart rate 125 beats / min. Question: is it possible that, when checked every year, the child did not have an aneurysm, or why was it not found? And the second question: is the size of the aneurysm 23*6 a very large size? I have never seen such figures on the Internet on the forums.

How serious is this, please tell me. The doctor in our city did not really explain anything.

With great gratitude and anticipation, Julia. Altai region.

What may happen later: predicting the disease

In order to prevent the transition of the disease into a more severe form, you should regularly undergo an examination with the baby at the local pediatrician and cardiologist. It is also necessary to periodically do an ultrasound and perform an ECG. Such measures will allow to control the dynamics of the disease, and take timely action in order to minimize possible complications.

In general, the prognosis for such an anomaly is favorable. Pathology does not affect the development of the baby, and rarely causes discomfort. An aneurysm rupture is diagnosed in 10% of patients. At the same time, the survival rate after the operation is about 80%.

Many parents who are faced with such a problem are concerned about the issue of their child attending physical education classes and sports sections. Permission for this kind of training must be given by a cardiologist. The specialist makes a decision based on the results of the examination, taking into account the size of the anomaly and the accompanying changes in the work of the heart.

Atrial septal aneurysm in adults has an ambiguous prognosis. If the pathology is not treated, it is fraught with complications equally in children and the older generation against the background of malfunctions in the heart.

The risk of developing heart failure is high. Late detection of an acute aneurysm can lead to thrombus migration and rupture of the septum.

It is possible to move a blood clot to the brain, nearby systems, which will lead to a physical crisis, gangrene, myocardial infarction, and is fraught with death.

A MPP aneurysm with a MPP defect (bleeding, heart disease, etc.) excludes the recruitment of young people, the army does not recruit men with similar problems.

In order to prevent pathology, patients are recommended to direct efforts in order to prevent the development of ischemia and myocardial infarction. It is important to follow a healthy lifestyle, normalize nutrition with the exclusion of spicy, fried and smoked foods from the diet, eradicate bad habits, and regularly undergo medical examinations.

When making a diagnosis - acute myocardial infarction, it is important to follow the regimen established by the doctor, to dose physical activity.

The heart is one of the most important organs of the human body. How well it functions human life and health depends. Normally, the right and left atrium are separated from each other by a special septum.

There are situations when this partition is deformed(first becomes thinner, and then protrudes to one side or the other). This contributes to disruption of cardiac activity, disruption of normal blood flow.

This pathology is called an aneurysm. We will talk about the methods of treating aneurysm of the interatrial septum in children in the article.

You can learn about how to treat an anal fissure in a child from ours.

Concept and description

Atrial septal aneurysm - what is it?

An aneurysm is muscle deformity located in the region of the heart.

As a result of such negative changes, a protrusion of a separate section of the muscle towards the right or left atrium is formed.

The exact reasons for the development of this defect have not been established to date, however, it is believed that the anomaly develops, most often in utero.

This phenomenon can be provoked by intrauterine infections, abnormalities in the development of the cardiovascular system of the fetus, and hereditary predisposition.

Aneurysm is considered a rather insidious disease, since for many years it may not manifest itself in any way, nevertheless exerting the most negative impact on a person’s health.

Pathology develops gradually. At the first stage, the deformation processes are insignificant, manifested in the thinning of the cardiac septum.

Over time, the changes become more pronounced, a characteristic bag-like protrusion appears in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe heart muscle. As a rule, it occurs on that part of the septum where its tissues have thinned the most.

Reasons for development

The main cause of ventricular septal aneurysm in newborns and young children consider a hereditary factor and pathology of the development of the cardiovascular system in the prenatal period.

To the number negative factors that can contribute to the appearance of an anomaly include:

• congenital defect in the form of weakness of the connective tissue;
• connective tissue damage as a result of diseases such as, for example, Marfan's syndrome;
• decreased vascular tone, which develops as a result of diseases such as atherosclerosis, syphilis;
• sharp;
• vascular injury;
• thrombosis.

The development of the disease can also lead to malnutrition (in particular, the consumption of large amounts of fatty foods), some infectious diseases.

Pathogenesis

What happens with an aneurysm? There are 3 forms of aneurysm, depending on how the protrusion is located, on its shape. Distinguish:

1. right protrusion, that is, a protrusion from the left atrium to the right. This form is considered the most common.
2. Left protrusion when the protrusion is directed to the left atrium.
3. S-shaped aneurysm, the lower part of the muscle protrudes in one direction, the upper part in the opposite direction.

Depending on the course of the disease, 3 forms of its development are distinguished:

• chronic. The clinical picture of the pathology is similar to the manifestations of heart failure;
• acute form. It is characterized by the severity of symptoms, their rapid onset and development;
• subacute. Manifested in the form of shortness of breath, general weakness. Accompanied by the development of heart failure.

Clinical manifestations depending on age

At the initial stage of the development of aneurysms of the MPP, in most cases, it has an asymptomatic course, that is, it does not manifest itself clinically.

However, over time there are certain changes in the health of the child. The nature of these changes depends on many factors, including the age of the small patient.

Yes, in children under the age of 3 years note the following symptoms:

1. Delays in physical and mental development.
2. Deviations from the norm of weight gain in the smaller direction.
3. Susceptibility to viral infections, weakness of the immune system.
4. Paleness (or cyanosis) of the skin.

In children older age there are such manifestations of the aneurysm of the MPS as:

1. Lagging behind in terms of height, weight.
2. Weakness of the body, intolerance to even light physical exertion.
3. General deterioration.
4. Deviations in the development of the reproductive system.
5. Disorders in the work of the cardiovascular system, arrhythmia, pain in the region of the heart.
6. When listening in the heart area, the presence of noise is noted.

How to identify pathology?

To make a diagnosis, the doctor assesses the totality of symptoms that disturb the patient, collects a family history (to determine the possibility of a hereditary factor), and performs a visual examination of the patient.

Besides, the following studies will be required:

• Chest ultrasound. Allows you to identify the presence of an aneurysm, to establish the size of the heart;
• ECG. Allows you to determine the type and location of the pathology;
• MRI, CT. Allows you to determine the condition of the vessels of the heart, the degree of development of the aneurysm.

When making a diagnosis in a newborn child, they are used additionally and doppler method.

This is necessary to clarify the diagnosis, assess the state of blood flow in the region of the heart.

Treatment

At the initial stage of the development of a disease of any no specialized treatment required(unless, of course, the pathology grows and does not cause any inconvenience to the patient).

It is important to remember that a child who has been diagnosed with an appropriate diagnosis needs constant monitoring by a cardiologist and pediatrician.

If the disease progresses, is manifested by characteristic signs, a small patient needs treatment (conservative, or, in especially serious cases, surgical).

Therapeutic

This therapy is suitable for small aneurysms that do not pose a serious danger to health and life child.

This method of treatment includes the following measures:

1. Compliance with a special diet (exclusion of salty foods, foods high in cholesterol).
2. Special gymnastics, involving light physical activity.
3. Taking medications necessary to eliminate the symptoms of pathology (if necessary).
4. Oxygenobarotherapy (treatment with high pressure oxygen).
5. Consultations of a cardiologist once every six months.

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Medical

The following groups of drugs are used to treat aneurysm of the MPP:

1. Glycosides. Needed to increase the intensity or decrease the number of heartbeats.
2. Anticoagulants- drugs that regulate the process of blood clotting (thinning the blood).
3. Beta blockers to reduce heart rate.
4. Antiarrhythmic drugs designed to prevent the development of arrhythmia.

Surgical

Surgery to treat an aneurysm of the urinary tract is used in exceptional cases, for example, if the aneurysm is large, significantly affects the work of the entire cardiovascular system, or if there is a threat of aneurysm rupture.

Therefore, in such cases, the child is shown urgent surgical intervention. The operation is carried out in one of the following ways:

1. Artificial reinforcement of the walls aneurysms with polymeric materials. This method is used to prevent rupture and growth of the aneurysm.
2. Resection(excision of the aneurysm). After removal of the pathology, the wall of the septum is restored.

Folk methods

It is important to remember that folk recipes can only be used for small aneurysms. In all other cases, the child will need more serious conservative or surgical treatment.

As a folk remedy, use a decoction of wild rose, calamus, hawthorn, valerian. Each ingredient must be taken in equal proportions (1 tablespoon each), pour 500 ml. boiling water, leave for half an hour.

The resulting product is diluted in 300 ml. warm boiled water, give the child during the day. In the early days, it is recommended to dilute 1 tsp. funds, gradually increase this amount to 2 tbsp.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of developing an aneurysm of the urinary tract, it is necessary take care of your physical and emotional health child, protect him from infectious diseases, feed him with healthy products, strengthen immunity, protect him from stress and worries.

Pay attention to physical activity. They should be moderate, but regular.

Proper nutrition

To prevent the occurrence of aneurysm of the urinary tract, parents must necessarily monitor the diet of their child.

Well if the child consumes enough products such as:

• fruits (avocados, apples, grapefruits, bananas, pomegranates);
• legumes (for example, beans);
• flaxseed oil (enough 2 grams per day);
• cereals;
• pumpkin, garlic, broccoli;
• berries (strawberries, cherries, raspberries, currants and others);
• fish (salmon, trout, salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardine);
• mushrooms;
• dark chocolate (in a small amount, if there is no allergy);
• nuts (walnut, almond).

An aneurysm is a disease that, depending on its development, may not cause any inconvenience to the child, or may seriously endanger his health.

Rupture of an aneurysm is a dangerous condition that threatens the life of a child.

Significant enlargement of the aneurysm can cause embolism, and rupture of the septum increases the risk of a detached embolus entering important internal organs. This, in turn, leads to the development of dangerous diseases, such as gangrene, renal infarction.

Tips for parents from the Union of Pediatricians of Russia regarding atrial septal defect in this video:

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A congenital or acquired aneurysm of the interatrial septum is characterized by a sac-like protrusion of the tissue that separates the right and left atrium. Pathology appears as a result of thinning of tissues and can occur in acute or chronic form. Its untimely elimination leads to rupture of the septum, which increases the risk of stroke against the background of increased thrombus formation.

Characteristics of the pathology

The main reason for the development of MP aneurysm is the weakening of the heart wall, which has a clear localization and appears as a result of structural or functional disorders. In the first case, the layers of the septum are affected, followed by the death of healthy tissues or their replacement with foreign formations. Functional disorders are characterized by the inability of a local area of ​​the myocardium to contract along with the entire heart muscle.

As a result of exposure to high pressure inside the hollow organ, the weakened place begins to bulge, eventually turning into an aneurysm. Most often, pathology is diagnosed on the walls of the ventricles, less often in the atria. Despite the long process of formation, its development can rapidly accelerate due to increased physical activity, in which the heart muscle has to pump more blood volume.

There are the following types of aneurysms:

1. True. All layers of the vascular walls are stretched. In most cases, the pathology does not manifest itself in any way until tissue rupture occurs. Advanced cases are fraught with the development of thrombosis, vascular dissection, embolism, and stroke.
2. False. It develops after injury to the vascular walls. As a result, blood begins to seep through the thinned place, which accumulates in the septum as a pulsating hematoma. The main difference from a true aneurysm is that only one layer of tissue is stretched. A great danger is the pathology that affected the vital vessels.
3. Exfoliating. It is characterized by leakage of blood into the space between the walls of the aorta, which, under certain conditions, leads to a rupture of the external septum. This type of aneurysm is dangerous with a high risk of death in case of tissue rupture.

Causes of a congenital aneurysm

During the prenatal period of development in the septum of the heart there is an "oval window" - a hole that normally overgrows after birth. But if tissue cells divide with disturbances, they acquire an excessively fine structure. With the birth of a baby, the circulatory system begins to function in full, heart pressure rises and the wall protrudes, stretching inward.

If during pregnancy the mother's body is exposed to negative factors, the risk of developing a congenital aneurysm increases. These include:

• tobacco abuse;
• drinking alcohol, even in small quantities;
• toxic fumes from production or from household chemicals;
• uncontrolled drug treatment;
• the transfer of certain diseases (rubella, measles, mumps).

Often, a heart aneurysm goes away on its own. This is explained by the fact that due to the growth of the newborn, there is a decrease in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bpathology in proportion to the entire organ.

Important! When making an accurate diagnosis, the child must regularly conduct cardiological examinations for the recurrence of the defect.

Causes of an acquired aneurysm

Acquired aneurysm is a consequence of a number of diseases that affect the tissues of the heart muscle or act on it indirectly through the conduction system of the organ. With their inadequate treatment, complications may develop, including weakening of the septum of the heart.

There are the following causes of acquired aneurysm:

1. Myocardial infarction. During a heart attack, the heart muscle receives oxygen in an amount insufficient for normal functioning. Cardiomyocytes, which are subject to rapid destruction, are not able to recover in full. Instead, connective tissue grows, which does not have the necessary elasticity and ability to contract. An aneurysm develops in the first weeks after a heart attack, when the new tissue has not hardened and has not gained strength to contain high blood pressure.
2. Infections of various etiologies (streptococcus, Coxsackie virus, Epstein-Barr virus, candidiasis). Once in the body, the infection is carried with the bloodstream to the heart. Its tissues begin to become inflamed, which leads to serious consequences - part of the cardiomyocytes is destroyed. Even after recovery, the areas that have been negatively affected are overgrown with scar tissue. With a confluence of certain factors against the background of an intense inflammatory process, further development of a heart aneurysm is possible.
3. Complications after surgery. During the operation to eliminate heart defects, surgical sutures are applied. For a number of reasons, tissues can grow together incorrectly, scars become very coarse, which ultimately leads to the occurrence of focal cardiosclerosis. Elderly people and children, as well as patients who underwent surgery on the left ventricle, are at risk for such complications.
4. mechanical injury. If the heart muscle is damaged by a piercing weapon, its overgrowth is often accompanied by the formation of scar tissue. Further, the aneurysm develops as a result of focal sclerotic changes. When injured with a blunt object, the vessels are destroyed with leakage of fluid. This leads to myocarditis with subsequent development of cardiosclerosis.
5. Exposure to toxins (alcohol, thyrotoxins, uric acid, artificial chemical compounds). When substances with a high degree of toxicity enter the circulatory system, inflammation of the intercardiac tissue with damage to myocardial cells is observed. In some cases, death and uncontrolled growth of connective tissue is possible.

Symptoms of pathology

Congenital aneurysm of the atrial septum, as a rule, does not manifest itself as pronounced changes in the body. Symptoms may vary depending on age. From birth to three years, the child has a lag in psychophysical development. He is not gaining weight well, is prone to frequent viral diseases. When diagnosing, there is an excessive load on the pulmonary circulation and a volume increase in one of the sections of the ventricle.

With growing up, growth retardation becomes more noticeable, the child cannot tolerate physical activity on an equal basis with peers, often gets tired and feels pain in the heart area. During a medical examination, pallor of the skin, structural changes in the chest in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bpathology (protrusion), tachycardia and increased blood pressure are established.

After establishing an accurate diagnosis, patients need to regularly visit a cardiologist to detect changes in the pathology through specific examinations. Such actions are aimed at preventing aneurysm rupture, which is most often observed in adolescent children.

Important! The diagnosis of chronic aneurysm of the heart, having a code according to ICD 10 (international classification of diseases of the tenth revision) 125.3, is the basis for obtaining one of the disability groups, depending on the severity of the disease and the degree of disability.

In adults, the signs of an aneurysm are diverse, which is associated with both the location and size of the neoplasm. Since the development of a heart aneurysm is observed quite often in the postinfarction period, the patient needs to monitor changes in well-being and not miss examinations by a cardiologist.

The main symptoms of an aneurysm of the heart muscle in adulthood:

• pain in the region of the heart;
• regular weakness;
• rhythm disturbances, a feeling of increased heartbeat;
• shortness of breath after minor physical exertion;
• pallor of the skin;
• cough without the appearance of other signs of colds.

Treatment of pathology

Aneurysm of the septum of the heart requires cardinal treatment only in case of rapid growth. Surgical intervention is resorted to if the risk of developing pulmonary hypertension is established due to the release of a large volume of blood into the interstitial space, with the threat of a sudden breakthrough of a thinned septum and with the rapid progression of education.

In the preoperative period, the patient is prescribed anticoagulant drugs and cardiac glycosides, as well as oxygen therapy and oxygen therapy. During the operation, the formation is sutured or closed with a patch of hypoallergenic material of synthetic origin.

Prevention of pathology

Postinfarction aneurysms that are not treated promptly have the least favorable prognosis. Without eliminating the pathology, within two to three years after suffering a heart attack, patients die from complications. Other cases of the disease are benign, but they can significantly reduce the quality of human life.

To reduce the risk of complications that can develop against the background of even a small aneurysm, the patient must comply with drug treatment. In addition, maintaining a moderate lifestyle and following a certain diet is mandatory.

For the timely detection of aneurysm of the interatrial septum in children, it is necessary to monitor their health and, if there is any suspicion, contact a cardiologist. The basis for preventing the development of pathology in adulthood is adequate treatment of myocardial infarction and strict adherence to rehabilitation recommendations.

Aneurysms can develop in children for a variety of reasons. It can be congenital or occurs in the process of growth and development of the child. The most susceptible to the development of pathology are children whose relatives suffered from this disease.

The elasticity of the walls of blood vessels is weakened by various pathologies, including:

• hypertension (high blood pressure),
• atherosclerosis,
• vasculitis,
• syphilis.

Teen smoking is also a risk factor. A bad habit accelerates the development of aneurysms, causes hypertension and atherosclerosis.

Among other things, blood clots and vascular injuries cause aneurysms. Thrombi mostly appear in small blood vessels. These types of pathologies most often develop in adolescents, especially those who have been in an accident or are involved in extreme sports.

Symptoms

Aneurysms in young children proceed without symptoms for many years. It comes to light, as a rule, after the X-ray inspection which is casually spent for other reason. Pain in the affected area can also indicate the disease. Aneurysm can be congenital or acquired and have several forms, each of which is characterized by certain symptoms:

• Pathology of the brain. It manifests itself in the form of impaired coordination of movement, headache, seizures of an epileptic nature.
• Aneurysm of the heart. Most often manifested during fetal development. The main symptom of such an aneurysm is the presence of all signs of heart failure.
• Thoracic aortic aneurysm. It can be asymptomatic, and it can manifest itself in the form of cough, shortness of breath, pain in the back and when swallowing;
• Pathology of the aorta of the peritoneal cavity. With such an aneurysm, pain appears in the abdomen, chest, lower back and sides. In some positions, pain may increase. Also among the symptoms are the appearance of a pulsation in the abdomen, fever, blue fingers, weight loss. All of these signs appear if the aneurysm has caused inflammation or the formation of blood clots.

When an aneurysm ruptures in children, the following symptoms appear:

• acute pain
• sudden drop in pressure
• tachycardia and impaired breathing,
• lack of sensitivity and reaction,
• bluing of the skin.

When an aneurysm ruptures, a fatal outcome occurs if help is not provided to the child on time.

Diagnosis of an aneurysm in a child

Based on the symptoms, diagnosing an aneurysm in a child is almost impossible. In this case, special studies are required. So, x-rays will help in the diagnosis of aortic aneurysms of the sternum, and tomography will help identify brain aneurysms. All types of examinations are prescribed exclusively by a doctor.

With the help of differential diagnosis, the doctor distinguishes aneurysms from tumor neoplasms, including oncological ones.

Complications

In case of untimely treatment of an aneurysm in a child, the consequences can be very serious. After an aneurysm ruptures, a child may go into a coma, which is due to the fact that blood enters the subarachnoid space and then mixes with the fluid of the spinal cord. In 75% of cases, after the rupture of the aneurysm, a fatal outcome is possible. A large number of patients die even at the stage of preparation for surgery. The probability of a lethal outcome is reduced by 15% if the child has an operation.

Sudden angiospasm of blood vessels, which can occur as a result of an aneurysm, is the main cause of stroke and death. In this case, the patient's disability is considered a favorable outcome.

Treatment

What can you do

Parents should pay close attention to the health of the child and regularly undergo examinations with him by various specialists. Since aneurysms are often asymptomatic, this approach will prevent and detect the presence of the disease in time. In case of signs of pathology, parents need to urgently show the child to a pediatrician, cardiologist and vascular surgeon. If the aneurysm ruptured, an ambulance should be called.

What does a doctor do

Treatment of an aneurysm in a child depends on the rate of development of the pathology. If the aneurysm is rapidly progressing and is large, surgical intervention is performed. During the operation, the damaged part of the vessel is replaced with an artificially created graft. If the aneurysm is small, it may not rupture. Treatment of such a pathology is carried out by conservative methods. Most often, drugs are used that are similar to drugs used to treat high blood pressure and reduce the load on the walls of blood vessels.

If the child underwent surgery to stop the aneurysm, it is necessary to regularly monitor his condition and visit a doctor.

Prevention

Prevention of an aneurysm if it is congenital does not make sense. But it is possible to prevent acquired pathology. Be sure to tell the children about the dangers of smoking, which has a pathological effect on the heart and blood vessels. Also monitor the pressure of the child, if he has problems with him. Take care of proper nutrition: the diet of children should be balanced, enriched with various vitamins and microelements. It should contain fruits, vegetables, carbohydrates and protein. Do not forget that excess weight is the main cause of problems with the heart and blood vessels in both children and adults.

It is also important that the child is involved in some kind of sport. It is necessary to ensure that children observe the daily routine, sleep the prescribed number of hours, do not overwork and avoid various stressful situations.

Heart aneurysm in children is rather a collective concept. To be more precise, aneurysms of the structures of the heart are isolated - stretching of the septa between the atria and ventricles. So, what should be understood as an atrial septal aneurysm (ASA)?

Atrial septal aneurysm is not a defect. Therefore, you should not panic for no reason when you hear such a diagnosis in the doctor's office. It is characterized by a sagging portion of the interatrial septum into the cavity of the right or left atrium. belongs to the group of so-called small anomalies of the heart, which are considered as a possible variant of the norm or a borderline state between the norm and pathology.

1 Prevalence and causes of aneurysms

The prevalence of this anomaly is slightly more than 1% among newborns. An aneurysm of the interatrial septum is a congenital change in its structure that does not lead to a violation of the function of the heart. The reasons for the formation of a protrusion in the area of ​​the interatrial septum is a difficult topic, about which researchers have not reached a consensus until today.

However, the leading and probable causes of the development of minor heart anomalies in children have been identified. They can be divided into 2 groups:

1. internal reasons. These include:
   • Violation of the processes of development of connective tissue. At the same time, the content of certain types of collagen decreases or their ratio is disturbed. Both in the first and in the second cases, the connective tissue loses its strength. To date, this cause is leading in the development of aneurysm of the urinary tract.
   • hereditary predisposition.
   • Violation of the formation of the interatrial septum during fetal development.
2. external reasons. This group includes the impact of various environmental factors. A possible cause of the development of an aneurysm may be the transferred infectious diseases in a pregnant woman.

2 Classification of aneurysm

SMP aneurysm is classified into the following 3 forms:

1. Protrusion into the cavity of the right atrium.
2. Protrusion towards the left atrium.
3. S-shaped curvature, when there is a deflection to the right and left sides.

3 Clinical manifestations

An atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) is a congenital malformation that in most cases is asymptomatic. This is explained by the fact that the presence of an aneurysm of the urinary tract does not impair the function of the heart. Such a child is no different from other children and in physical and mental development does not lag behind their peers. Often, it is by chance that an aneurysm can be detected in a child during an ultrasound of the heart.

However, it should be remembered that this anomaly is a source of heart rhythm disturbance in a child. What is the reason? Let's figure it out. So, the heart is an organ that performs the function of a pump in our body. For each contraction (systole), a certain portion of blood is ejected into the vessels of the systemic and pulmonary circulation.

During the work of the heart, the walls of the atria and ventricles oscillate under the influence of blood flow. Moreover, in the presence of an aneurysm, these fluctuations are more pronounced. In the wall of the right atrium there are active cells - the so-called "pacemakers", which provide the impulses necessary for the contraction of the heart.

When the aneurysm of the MPP oscillates, irritation and an increase in the activity of these cells occur. As a result, there are symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances - arrhythmias. In some cases, the presence of an aneurysm can be combined with instability of the autonomic nervous system - neurocirculatory dystonia.

So, summing up, in the clinic of this anomaly, newborns may have the following symptoms:

1. Cardiac arrhythmias are rapid, slow, or irregular beats of the heart.
2. Symptoms of autonomic dysfunction are poor sleep, lethargy, or, conversely, increased excitability. Older children may complain of headaches, sweating, fatigue, discomfort or pain in the heart area. Disorders of the digestive system - belching, bloating and abdominal pain may be disturbing. Appetite decreases, stool may be disturbed.

As you can see, these symptoms are completely non-specific for atrial septal aneurysm, as they can be detected in a very large number of other diseases and functional disorders in children. Therefore, these clinics are not the basis for diagnosing urinary tract aneurysms.

4 Diagnostics

Diagnosis of aneurysm is based on an integrated approach. Basic diagnostic methods:

• Auscultation. Listening to the heart with a stethoscope. Already at this stage, the doctor can hear a murmur in the heart area, which may indicate that the baby may have some kind of anomaly.
• Echocardiography - ultrasound of the heart. This method is affordable, safe, and most importantly, informative in the diagnosis of aneurysms. It allows you to identify the protrusion of the interatrial septum and its fluctuation in the phases of the cardiac cycle.
• ECG - electrocardiogram - is not the main diagnostic method, but is performed to assess the work of the heart. Thanks to this method, various rhythm disturbances can be detected.

Other methods, including ECG, are additional in the complex diagnosis of minor anomalies in the development of the heart. They may indicate some kind of functional disorders of the heart.

5 Treatment

The issue of aneurysm treatment is an urgent topic that worries many. To date, the principles for the treatment of aneurysms and other minor anomalies of the heart have not been definitively defined. However, the following tactics of managing such patients can be suggested:

The treatment program is individual for each patient. It is based on a comprehensive health assessment, which includes various diagnostic methods.

Surgical treatment is not carried out, since the aneurysm is not a defect, but belongs to the group of small anomalies in the development of the heart. Therefore, it does not interfere with the work of the heart.

Minor heart anomalies are a group of conditions that require the patient to be registered. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly see a specialist. Observation is carried out in order to control the condition of the aneurysm and correct the methods of therapy, if necessary.

6 Forecast

The prognosis of an aneurysm, subject to the recommendations, is favorable. Therefore, do not neglect the doctor's instructions regarding treatment and prevention, thanks to which your child is ensured a healthy and full development. Health to you and your children!