Q: What is a brain tumor?

A: A brain tumor is a mass of abnormal cells that develops in the brain or surrounding tissues. Tumors can be:

• Benign (noncancerous) and slow-growing
• Malignant (cancerous) and fast-growing

Tumors that begin in the brain are called primary brain tumors. Those that spread from other parts of the body are called secondary or metastatic brain tumors.

Q: What symptoms can a brain tumor cause?

A: Symptoms depend on the tumor’s size, type, and location. They may include:

• Headaches (sudden, frequent, or changing in pattern)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
• Problems with hearing, speech, or thinking
• Weakness or numbness in arms or legs
• Balance problems
• Exhaustion
• Confusion in daily activities
• Trouble following simple instructions
• Behavioral or personality changes

If these symptoms persist or worsen, consult a doctor for further evaluation.

Q: What causes brain tumors?

A: Primary brain tumors occur when normal cells in the brain or nearby areas mutate and grow uncontrollably. These can arise in:

• The brain tissue itself
• The meninges (covering membranes)
• Cranial nerves
• The pituitary or pineal glands

Secondary brain tumors occur when cancer spreads to the brain from another part of the body, commonly from the lungs, breasts, kidneys, colon, or skin (melanoma). Secondary brain tumors are more common in adults than primary brain tumors.

Q: Who is at risk of brain tumors?

A: While many brain tumors have no known cause, risk factors include:

• Exposure to ionizing radiation (e.g., cancer treatments, atomic bomb radiation)
• Family history of brain tumors or certain genetic syndromes

Q: What are the main types of brain tumors?

A: Primary Brain Tumors:

• Gliomas: Tumors from the brain or spinal cord (e.g., astrocytomas, ependymomas, glioblastomas, oligodendrogliomas)
• Meningiomas: Tumors from the meninges (the membranes around the brain and spinal cord)
• Acoustic neuromas (schwannomas): Noncancerous tumors that develop on the nerves responsible for balance and hearing, usually between the inner ear and the brain.
• Pituitary adenomas: Tumors in the pituitary gland; may alter pituitary hormone levels
• Medulloblastomas: Cancerous tumors starting in the lower back part of the brain, often spreading through spinal fluid; more common in children
• Germ cell tumors: Usually develop in children and may appear in the brain
• Craniopharyngiomas: Rare tumors near the pituitary gland, potentially affecting surrounding brain structures

Q: How are brain tumors diagnosed?

A: Brain tumors can be diagnosed through various methods, including:

• Neurological exam: Tests vision, hearing, balance, strength, coordination, and reflexes
• MRI scan: Primary imaging method; sometimes with contrast dye
• Specialized MRI scans: Functional MRI, perfusion MRI, magnetic resonance spectroscopy — to assess the tumor and assist in treatment planning
• CT or PET scans: Used in specific cases
• Biopsy: Confirms if the tumor is cancerous or benign; may be done during surgery or with a stereotactic needle biopsy (especially for hard-to-reach tumors or sensitive areas of the brain).

Q: What are the treatment options for brain tumors?

A: Treatment depends on the tumor’s type, size, and location:

Surgery

• If the tumor is small and can be separated from surrounding brain tissue, complete removal may be possible.
• Tumors near sensitive areas may not be fully removable due to risk; however, the doctor will remove as much of the tumor as is safely possible.
• Partial removal can help reduce symptoms and signs.
• Risks include infection, bleeding, or complications (e.g., vision loss if near the optic nerves)

If the brain tumors are considered as a group of malignant (cancerous) cells, there are treatment options as follows:

Radiation Therapy

• Uses high-energy beams (X-rays or protons) to kill tumor cells
• Usually delivered by an external machine (outside of the body)
• Can target the tumor or the whole brain
• Side effects: fatigue, headaches, memory loss, scalp irritation, hair loss

Stereotactic Radiosurgery

• Delivers tightly focused radiation using multiple beams that combine at the tumor site
• Often completed in a single session
• Most patients go home the same day

Chemotherapy

• Uses medications in oral form or intravenous injection to kill tumor cells
• The type of medicine depends on the type of cancer
• Side effects vary by drug type and dosage, but may include nausea, vomiting, and hair loss
• Testing tumor cells can help assess how effective chemotherapy may be

Targeted Therapy

• Focuses on specific abnormalities in cancer cells
• Blocks these abnormalities to stop tumor growth
• Tumor cells can be tested prior to treatment to determine if targeted therapy would be effective for that specific type of brain tumor

Immunotherapy

• Immunotherapy is a type of treatment that uses specific medications to support the immune system
• It helps the body’s natural defenses locate and destroy cancer cells
• The immune system typically works by targeting harmful invaders and abnormal cells
• This therapy improves the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer more effectively

Q: Why is rehabilitation important after treatment?

A: Brain tumors can affect areas responsible for movement, speech, and memory. Rehabilitation can support recovery:

• Physical therapy: Regains motor skills and strength
• Occupational therapy: Helps resume daily tasks
• Speech therapy: Supports patients with speech difficulties
• Tutoring: Helps school-age children adapt to learning or memory changes

Brain tumors can have a serious impact, but early diagnosis and the right treatment can lead to better outcomes. If you experience ongoing neurological symptoms, consult a healthcare provider promptly.

For more information, please contact

Neuroscience Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 5400
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA), like other forms of knee surgery, is a common source of anxiety for many patients.

These concerns can stem from a variety of reasons — fear of pain, fear of complications, or even fear of being unable to stand or walk again after the surgery.

Thanks to advances in medical technology, robotic-assisted knee surgery is now available to enhance surgical precision and optimize patient outcomes. Key benefits include:

1. High precision – The robotic arm enables surgeons to operate with exceptional accuracy, reducing the risk of error.
2. Smaller incisions – Minimally invasive with smaller surgical wounds.
3. Less blood loss – Minimizes bleeding during the procedure.
4. Reduced pain – Patients report significantly less postoperative pain.
5. Faster recovery – Shorter hospital stays; patients can stand and walk within 12 hours.
6. Improved mobility – Faster return to an active, everyday life.

Today, the VELYS™ Robotic-Assisted Solution (VRAS) is being used to enhance surgical performance, increase confidence in movement after surgery, and help patients stand and walk within just 12 hours post-operation.

For more information, please contact

Hip and Knee Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2222, 2223
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Office Syndrome is commonly caused by poor work habits—such as improper posture or prolonged use of a mouse and keyboard without sufficient breaks. Over time, this can lead to chronic muscle tension and pain, especially in the neck, shoulders, back, and wrists.

One effective treatment that directly targets muscle pain—without medication or surgery—is Dry Needling.

What is Dry Needling?

Dry Needling is a physical therapy technique that involves inserting fine needles into trigger points—tight or injured areas within the muscles that are often responsible for chronic pain. This approach is particularly effective for individuals experiencing muscle tension related to Office Syndrome.

Benefits of Dry Needling:

• Provides rapid relief from muscle tightness and pain
• Helps restore normal muscle function and reduce inflammation
• Eliminates the need for pain medications or surgical procedures
• Can be effectively combined with stretching and physical therapy

Who Can Benefit from Dry Needling?

• Individuals experiencing persistent symptoms of Office Syndrome
• Patients who have not responded well to other treatments
• Those seeking to reduce or avoid long-term use of painkillers
• People without medical contraindications to needling therapy

If you’re starting to notice discomfort in your neck, shoulders, back, or wrists due to long hours at the computer, consult a rehabilitation medicine specialist for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

For more information, please contact

Advanced Rehabilitation Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2316, 2332
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Spinal stenosis is a common condition, especially among older adults. It typically results from age-related degeneration of the spine, including the intervertebral discs, ligaments, and joints. Over time, these changes can cause the spinal canal to narrow, placing pressure on the spinal nerves. This nerve compression can lead to symptoms such as:

• Lower back or hip pain
• Leg pain that worsens with prolonged walking
• Increased pain when leaning backward, often relieved by resting or leaning forward

The treatment approach depends on the severity of the condition. Options may include:

• Physical therapy
• Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
• Localized anti-inflammatory injections
• Surgery, in cases where symptoms are severe or do not respond to conservative treatments

Today, many spinal decompression procedures can be performed using microscopic or endoscopic techniques. These minimally invasive surgeries often involve smaller incisions, reduced postoperative pain, and faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery.

If you or someone close to you is experiencing symptoms that could point to spinal stenosis, it’s important to see a doctor without delay. Early evaluation by a specialist can lead to an accurate diagnosis and a timely treatment plan. Addressing the condition early not only helps prevent complications but can also significantly improve the quality of life.

For more information, please contact

Spine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 5500
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide—and it often remains silent—until it’s too late.

Early-stage lung cancer rarely causes symptoms, which is why thousands of lives are lost each year due to late diagnosis. Screening tests can help prevent cancer from progressing.

Chronic coughs or bloody sputum, shortness of breath, chest pain, unexplained weight loss, hoarseness, or fatigue are often symptoms of lung cancer. If these symptoms persist for several weeks, it’s strongly recommended to seek medical immediate medical attention.

Low-Dose CT SCAN is a powerful screening tool that can detect lung cancer at its earliest, most treatable stages. It is a non-invasive, quick, and highly sensitive scan that’s recommended for individuals at higher risk—especially those aged 50 and above with a history of smoking or long-term exposure to harmful air pollutants.

Unlike traditional chest X-rays, Low-Dose CT scan can detect even the smallest nodules, giving patients a better chance at successful treatment and survival.

If the CT scan results reveal abnormalities that require further investigation, the doctor may consider EBUS-TBNA (Endobronchial Ultrasound-Guided Transbronchial Needle Aspiration). It is a bronchoscopic technique combined with ultrasound that allows for precise visualization and sampling of tissue from lymph nodes or lesions within the chest—without the need for surgery.

EBUS-TBNA is suitable for people who have a lump in the chest or are at risk of lung cancer, as it offers a safe, accurate, and quick recovery option. If you or someone close to you experiences abnormal symptoms or detects a lump in the chest, don’t delay—consult your doctor promptly for proper evaluation.

For more information, please contact

Life Cancer Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2720, 2721
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

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Gain comprehensive insight into lung cancer — from early warning signs to advanced diagnostics and highly personalized treatment options.

Q: What is prostate cancer?

A: Prostate cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the prostate gland, a small organ that produces seminal fluid to nourish and transport sperm. It is one of the most common cancers in men and often grows slowly without causing symptoms in early-stage.

Q: What causes prostate cancer?

A: Prostate cancer develops when genetic mutations cause cells in the prostate to grow uncontrollably and avoid dying. These abnormal cells can form a tumor, damage surrounding tissues, and potentially spread to other parts of the body (a process called metastasis).

Q: Who is at risk for prostate cancer?

A: Key risk factors include:

• Age: Common in men over 50
• Ethnicity: More prevalent in Black men
• Family history: A close relative with prostate cancer increases risk; having BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations also raises risk
• Obesity: Linked to higher chances of aggressive cancer

Q: What are common symptoms of prostate cancer?

A: Prostate cancer in its early stages may not cause symptoms. As it progresses, symptoms may include:

• Difficulty urinating
• Weak urine flow
• Blood in urine (hematuria) or semen
• Erectile dysfunction
• Bone pain
• Unintentional weight loss

If these symptoms persist, consult a doctor promptly.

Q: How is prostate cancer diagnosed?

A: Screening tests include:

• Digital Rectal Exam (DRE): A gloved finger is used to feel for abnormalities in the prostate
• Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Elevated PSA levels can indicate inflammation, enlargement, or cancer

Q: What happens if prostate cancer screening results are abnormal?

A: If initial screening suggests abnormalities, further diagnostic tests may be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer. These include:

1. Transrectal Ultrasound (TRUS): A small probe inserted into the rectum uses sound waves to produce images of the prostate
2. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Provides detailed images and helps guide tissue sampling
3. Prostate Biopsy: A thin needle is used to collect tissue samples from the prostate for laboratory analysis

Q: How is prostate cancer severity determined?

A: To evaluate how aggressive the cancer is, doctors commonly use two tools:

1. Gleason Score: Rates cancer aggressiveness from 6 to 10
   1. 6 = Low-grade
   2. 7 = Medium-grade
   3. 8–10 = High-grade
2. Genomic Testing: Identifies mutations and helps predict disease behavior

Q: How is prostate cancer staged?

A: After diagnosis, imaging tests like MRI, CT scans, PET scans, bone scans, or ultrasound help determine how far the cancer has spread:

• Stage I–II: Localized in the prostate
• Stage III: Spread to nearby tissues
• Stage IV: Spread to distant organs

In some early-stage cases, immediate treatment may not be necessary. Instead, doctors may recommend active surveillance, which involves regular blood tests, rectal exams, and prostate biopsies to monitor the cancer over time. If the cancer shows signs of progression, treatment such as surgery or radiation can then be considered.

Q: What are the treatment options for prostate cancer?

A: Treatment depends on cancer stage, aggressiveness, health status, and personal preferences. Options include:

1. Surgery

• Radical prostatectomy removes the prostate and surrounding tissues

Techniques include:

• Robot-assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy: Uses robotic tools through small abdominal incisions
• Retropubic surgery: A long incision is made in the abdomen to access the prostate; less commonly used

2. Radiation Therapy

• Kills cancer cells with high-energy rays

Options include:

• External Beam Radiation Therapy (EBRT): Delivered over weeks or in higher doses over fewer sessions
• Brachytherapy: Radioactive seeds are implanted into the prostate for continuous low-dose radiation

3. Focal Therapy

• Targets only the cancerous portion of the prostate

Techniques include:

• High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
• Cryotherapy
• Laser ablation
• Photodynamic therapy

4. Ablation Therapy (Freezing or Heating)

• Destroys prostate tissue using extreme temperatures

Methods include:

• Cryoablation: Freezes cancer cells
• HIFU: Uses focused ultrasound waves to heat and kill cancer tissue

Suitable for small or inoperable cancers and when other treatments aren’t an option

5. Hormone Therapy (Androgen Deprivation Therapy)

• Reduces testosterone, which fuels cancer growth

Approaches include:

• LHRH/GnRH agonists or antagonists: Suppress testosterone production
• Anti-androgens: Block testosterone from reaching cancer cells
• Orchiectomy: Surgical removal of testicles to quickly lower testosterone levels

Used before surgery, for inoperable cancer, or to slow advanced cancer

6. Chemotherapy

• Uses drugs to kill fast-growing cells

Often recommended when cancer has spread, or hormone therapy fails

7. Targeted Drug Therapy

• Focuses on specific mutations (e.g., BRCA) in cancer cells, helps block abnormal growth pathways and promote cancer cell death

Q: Can prostate cancer be cured?

A: Yes. Localized prostate cancer is often curable, especially with early detection. In advanced cases, treatments can manage the disease, relieve symptoms, and extend life expectancy.

Q: When should I see a doctor?

A: You should consider seeing a doctor for prostate cancer screening if you:

• Are over 50 years old
• Have a family history of prostate or breast cancer (including BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations)
• Belong to a higher-risk group, such as Black men
• Experience urinary or reproductive changes, bone pain, or unexplained weight loss

Even without symptoms, early screening is recommended for those at higher risk. Regular checkups improve the chances of detecting prostate cancer early when it is most treatable.

At Vejthani Hospital, every prostate cancer case is reviewed with precision through our Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) approach. This means specialists—including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, pathologists, oncology pharmacists, physiotherapists, psychologists, geneticists, and oncology nurses—collaborate during our weekly Tumor Board Conference to analyze patients’ medical data and develop the most effective, personalized treatment plan. By combining medical expertise with integrated care, our goal is to ensure each patient receives accurate, timely, and comprehensive treatment—enhancing both outcomes and quality of life.

For more information, please contact

Life Cancer Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 2720, 2721
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

Obesity is a growing global health concern that significantly affects overall well-being. Beyond its visible impact on self-confidence and physical appearance, Obesity increases the risk of serious health complications, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain forms of cancer. For people struggling with Obesity, achieving and maintaining a healthy weight can be challenging despite lifestyle changes. However, effective and safe medical interventions—known as bariatric surgery, particularly gastric sleeve surgery—offer a proven solution. These procedures not only support sustainable weight loss but also contribute to long-term improvements in health and reduces the risks of developing chronic kidney diseases in patients with MASH or MASLD in combination with Obesity and diabetes.

What is “Sleeve Gastrectomy”?

Sleeve gastrectomy is a type of bariatric Surgery designed to support significant and sustainable weight loss. The procedure involves removing the area responsible for producing the hunger hormone (ghrelin) in the stomach. As a result, patients feel full more quickly and experience a reduced appetite, making it easier to control food intake.

This surgical approach is typically recommended for people with Obesity who have not achieved sufficient weight loss through diet and exercise alone. Sleeve gastrectomy has been proven effective in promoting long-term weight loss.

Sleeve gastrectomy is not a quick fix, but a medically guided weight-loss solution that requires a commitment to healthier eating habits and regular physical activity to ensure long-term success.

Benefits of Sleeve gastrectomy for Obesity

• Reduces obesity-related complications: Successful weight loss helps lower the risk of conditions associated with Obesity, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.
• Improves quality of life: Patients often experience increased energy, improved mobility, and greater confidence in their appearance after losing weight.
• Lowers long-term mortality risk: Sleeve gastrectomy has been shown to reduce the long-term risk of death from obesity-related conditions.

What happens during the Surgery?

Bariatric surgery is commonly performed using advanced laparoscopic technology, making it a minimally invasive procedure. This approach results in smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and a faster recovery compared to traditional open Surgery.

Several surgical techniques are available, and the surgeon will determine the most suitable approach based on the patient’s health records. Currently, there are four primary approaches used in clinical practice:

1. Sleeve Gastrectomy or Gastric Sleeve

The procedure involves removing approximately 75–80% of the stomach, reducing its capacity to around 150–200 cc. This not only significantly decreases the stomach’s volume but also reduces the body’s production of the hunger hormone, ghrelin. As a result, patients feel full more quickly and consume less food, leading to effective weight loss—without affecting the absorption of calories and nutrients in the intestines.

2. Gastric Bypass (Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass: RYGB)

It is a weight-loss surgery that restructures the digestive system by creating a small pouch from the upper portion of the stomach and connecting it directly to the upper part of the small intestine, forming a Y-shaped pathway. This rerouting causes most food to bypass the larger section of the stomach and the initial segment of the small intestine, thereby reducing calorie and nutrient absorption. Additionally, the procedure lowers the release of appetite-regulating hormones, helping patients feel full more quickly and consume less food.

3. Sleeve Plus Surgery

This procedure combines a standard sleeve gastrectomy with the bypass of approximately 300 cm of the small intestine, further reducing the absorption of calories and nutrients. It helps patients feel full more quickly and typically results in greater weight loss compared to sleeve gastrectomy alone.

4. OAGB (One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass)

This procedure reduces the stomach size by about 15–20% by creating a new smaller pouch, which is then directly connected to the jejunum (a part of the small intestine) without removing the original stomach. Performed through small incisions, OAGB typically leads to faster weight loss compared to other techniques and has shown to be particularly effective in improving obesity-related conditions such as diabetes.

Who is eligible for Bariatric Surgery for weight loss?

Bariatric surgery is not suitable for everyone seeking to lose weight. Before proceeding, doctors conduct a physical examination and screening to determine if patients meet the necessary criteria:

1. People with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or who have poorly controlled diabetes.
2. People with a BMI of 32.5 or higher with comorbidities such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, or sleep apnea.
3. People with a BMI of 37.5.
4. Those who are physically and mentally prepared—patients must be healthy enough to undergo surgery and committed to making long-term changes to their eating habits and lifestyle after the procedure.
5. People who understand the potential risks and side effects—patients must be fully informed and provide consent regarding the risks associated with the surgery.

Calculating BMI

The formula to calculate BMI (Body Mass Index) is:

BMI = Weight (kg) ÷ Height (m)²

Example:

If a person weighs 50 kilograms and is 160 centimeters tall, their BMI would be calculated as follows:

BMI = 50 ÷ (1.60 * 1.60) = 19.5

For those considering bariatric surgery for weight loss, it is essential to consult an experienced doctor who can assess each individual’s condition and develop the most appropriate treatment plan. Bariatric surgery is not a shortcut to weight loss but rather an effective and safe tool for patients with a medical necessity who are prepared to commit to significant lifestyle changes.

Consultations are available at Vejthani Hospital for those interested in weight loss and obesity treatment through bariatric surgery. We offer accurate guidance, diagnosis, and treatment around the clock, supported by a team of specialists in personalized weight management and equipped with advanced medical technology. Our expert surgeons are highly experienced and committed to providing safe and effective weight loss solutions designed for each individual’s needs.

DR. THODSAPOL TREEJITWATTHANAKUN

Laparoscopic Surgeon

Sleeve Gastrectomy Package

Transformative Weight Management Program Under the Supervision of Specialized Doctor Package 395,000 THB (4 days and 3 nights of hospital stay)

For more information, please contact

Surgery Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 4500, 4501
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888

A Single Cigarette Destroys the Body in Multiple Ways. Every year on May 31st, the World Health Organization (WHO) designates the day as World No Tobacco Day to raise global awareness about the dangers of smoking and its undeniable impact on health.

Cigarettes contain over 7,000 chemicals, including more than 250 toxic substances and over 70 known carcinogens. These harmful compounds affect various bodily systems and contribute to the development of numerous diseases.

1. Cardiovascular Diseases: Smoking even a few cigarettes a day damages the heart and blood vessels. Toxic substances in cigarettes cause heart arrhythmia and coronary artery disease.
2. Emphysema: Smoking is a primary cause of shortness of breath and fatigue. In severe cases, patients may become bedridden or require continuous oxygen.
3. Cancer: Cigarettes are a leading cause of various types of cancers, especially lung cancer. Individuals at risk are advised to undergo screening with low-dose computed tomography (low-dose CT Scan).
4. Osteoporosis: Nicotine damages bone-forming cells and accelerates bone loss.
5. Diabetes: Toxic substances accumulate in the pancreas, impairing its function and leading to elevated blood sugar levels, which can result in diabetes.
6. Pneumonitis: Smoking damages the respiratory tract lining, increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.
7. Infant and Child Health: Research shows that secondhand and thirdhand smoke adversely affect children’s health, increasing the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), respiratory infections, asthma, allergies, and impairing brain development and intelligence.

Moreover, the harmful effects of smoking impact not only internal health but also outward appearance and personal image—especially in social interactions and daily life. The sooner you quit smoking, the greater the benefits—for your health and the health of those you love.

For more information, contact

Internal Medicine Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 ext. 2200, 2272
English Hotline:(+66)85-223-8888 

Some people grow up never realizing they were born with a heart defect — until one day; their body starts sending signals like feeling unusually fatigued, palpitations, chest tightness, or shortness of breath during physical activity, even at a young age.

An Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) is a congenital heart condition where there’s a hole in the wall (septum) that separates the left and right atria of the heart. Many people with this condition are unaware of it because symptoms may not appear in childhood and tend to become noticeable only as they get older. Without proper treatment, ASD can lead to complications such as enlarged heart, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, heart arrhythmia, or in some cases, a stroke may be the first noticeable sign.

Diagnosis of ASD includes a review of medical history, physical examination, and initial laboratory tests such as electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, and echocardiography — either Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) or Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) for a clearer view.

Treatment options for ASD are divided into four approaches:

1. Monitor Only: For patients with very small defects who have no symptoms or complications, regular check-ups and echocardiograms may be sufficient. Preventive antibiotics may be recommended before dental or high-risk procedures to reduce the risk of infection.
2. Medication: Manage symptoms of heart failure or control heart arrhythmia, if present.
3. Surgery: Recommended for large or multiple defects that cannot be closed using catheter-based techniques. This requires a hospital stay for post-operative recovery.
4. Transcatheter ASD Closure: A minimally invasive procedure that closes the hole in the septum using a special device inserted through a vein in the groin. This method does not use the open-heart surgery approach, it involves a small groin incision, reduces surgical risks, and enables faster recovery.

Early signs of heart conditions are often easy to miss. If you have a family history of Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) or are experiencing unusual symptoms, a quick heart screening could help prevent serious complications in the future.

For more information, please contact

Cardiac Center, Vejthani Hospital
Call: (+66)2-734-0000 Ext. 5300
English Hotline: (+66)85-223-8888