A commentary regarding the article 'A meta-analysis of atrial septal defect closure in patients with severe pulmonary hypertension: Is there a room for poking holes amidst debate?'

Atrial septal defects (ASD) are a common congenital heart defect. The majority of patient with ASDs often follow an uncomplicated course of events. However, a proportion of patients with ASDs, may have their condition complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), with a subsequent significant impact on management, morbidity, and mortality. The presence of PH influences the suitability for defect closure. Suitability for ASD closure when PVR is between 2.3 and 4.6 WU (PVRi 4-8 WU/m(2)) is not straightforward and clinical decision-making is individualized. Considerations include, whether to intervene with a complete defect closure, fenestrated closure or the 'treat and repair' strategy. However, it is difficult to determine the outcomes for ASD closure in patients with moderately-to-severely elevated PVR. A "treat and repair strategy" might be an option. In addition, the patient should be carefully selected by the observation of PVR change through vasoreactivity and balloon occlusion tests, and then closure should be considered. For patients with a predictable poor prognosis, research on the risk assessment of ASD closure in patients with PAH will be needed for a more individualized treatment plan.