Atrial septal defect and zero positive end-expiratory pressure: A case report

This case report aims to investigate the impact of zero Positive End-Expiratory Pressure (PEEP) on the respiratory parameters of a patient following atrial septal defect repair who requires mechanical ventilation. We present the case of a 33-year-old patient who had been experiencing recurrent chest infections accompanied by copious cough with greenish sputum since 2009, without experiencing shortness of breath. The patient had no significant childhood illnesses and had initially been treated with frequent antibiotics at a local health center, which did not lead to symptom improvement. Subsequently, the patient was referred to a tertiary level University Hospital and underwent a series of diagnostic investigations. Transesophageal echocardiography revealed a defect in the superior and posterior location of the interatrial septum, measuring approximately 16mm with left-to-right flow. This defect was situated at the insertion of the superior vena cava, consistent with a superior sinus venosus atrial septal defect. The examination also revealed a moderately dilated right atrium and mild-to-moderate tricuspid regurgitation. Consequently, the patient underwent intracardiac repair of the atrial septal defect on cardiopulmonary bypass. In light of the ongoing increase in symptoms, right ventricle remodeling, and pulmonary artery pressure as the patient ages, it is essential to consider recommencing atrial septal defect closure early after diagnosis, regardless of the presence of symptoms..