What procedure is commonly used to repair atrial septal defects?

The procedure commonly used to repair atrial septal defects is catheter-based closure. This minimally invasive technique involves the use of a catheter to deliver a closure device to the site of the defect in the atrial septum. The device is placed to effectively close the hole, thus preventing the abnormal blood flow between the left and right atria. This procedure is preferred due to its reduced recovery time and lower risks compared to traditional surgical options.

Surgical bypass, heart transplant, and valve replacement are not standard approaches for treating atrial septal defects. Surgical bypass is typically utilized for coronary artery disease, heart transplant is reserved for end-stage heart failure or severe heart conditions, and valve replacement pertains to addressing issues with heart valves rather than septal defects. Therefore, catheter-based closure stands out as the most appropriate and commonly used method for atrial septal defect repair.