A 45-year-old UAE resident, Abdul Wahid, recently visited Zulekha Hospital in Dubai with complaints of chest pain, shortness of breath, and difficulty breathing. Unsure of the cause, he underwent several medical tests, and the results revealed a surprising diagnosis, an atrial septal defect (ASD), commonly known as a ‘hole in the heart.’
“I was shocked and a bit nervous when I heard about the condition,” shared Abdul. “I didn’t know I had been living with this issue for so long. But I trusted God, and the doctors assured me it was treatable. Their confidence gave me hope.”
Dr. Shaheen Ahmad, an interventional cardiologist at Zulekha Hospital, carried out the necessary tests, including an ECG, echocardiogram (ECHO), and Transesophageal Echocardiogram, which confirmed the diagnosis.
The medical team decided to treat Abdul using a minimally invasive procedure called transcatheter percutaneous device closure, eliminating the need for open-heart surgery.
“This technique involves inserting a catheter through a vein in the groin and guiding it to the heart to deploy a device that seals the defect,” explained Dr. Ahmad.
Abdul underwent the procedure successfully and expressed his gratitude to the hospital team. “The process was smooth and reassuring. I was discharged the next day and already feel much better,” he said.
Dr. Ahmad highlighted the benefits of this advanced treatment option, stating, “This method reduces recovery time, minimizes risks, and allows patients to return to their daily lives much faster than traditional surgery.”
This procedure also marked a significant milestone for Zulekha Hospital in offering complex ASD device closures. Dr. Ahmad praised the teamwork among the hospital’s departments, from anesthesia to the Cath lab and ICU, ensuring a successful outcome.
Now recovering at home, Abdul feels optimistic about the future. “It feels like I’ve been given a second chance at life. I can finally breathe easily,” he said.
