Most common type of atrial septal defect (ASD) is:
Correct Answer
B) Ostium secundumExplanation
Atrial septal defects are classified according to their anatomical location within the atrial septum.
-
Ostium secundum ASD:
Located at the region of the fossa ovalis. It accounts for approximately 70–75% of all atrial septal defects, making it the most common type. -
Ostium primum ASD:
Less common. Typically associated with atrioventricular septal defects and endocardial cushion defects. -
Sinus venosus ASD:
Relatively rare. Commonly associated with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return. -
Comparison:
Since ostium secundum defects are far more frequent than other types, option (D) is incorrect.
Teaching Points
- Ostium secundum ASD is the most common type (≈70–75%)
- Located at the fossa ovalis
- Ostium primum ASD is associated with AV canal defects
- Sinus venosus ASD is commonly associated with anomalous pulmonary venous return
- Fixed split S2 is a classic clinical finding in ASD