What is a Ventricular Septal Defect?

A ventricular septal defect or VSD is a hole or opening in the septum between the lower chambers or ventricles of the heart. It is a birth defect that develops during pregnancy when the ventricular septum is not fully formed. The causes of this condition are unknown, but genetic factors could play a role.

In cases of ventricular septal defect, blood flows from the left ventricle to the right ventricle and into the lungs through the opening in the septum. This causes the heart and lungs to work in overdrive and eventually lead to conditions such as irregular heart rhythm, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure or stroke.

A patient with ventricular septal defect can have more than one opening in the ventricular septum. Some common names and locations for these openings are:

• Conoventricular ventricular septal defect located where the ventricular septum meets the pulmonary and aortic valves
• Perimembranous ventricular septal defect located in the upper area of the ventricular septum
• Inlet ventricular septal defect is an opening near the tricuspid and mitral valves
• Muscular ventricular septal defect located in the lower, muscular area of the ventricular septum

Diagnosis of a Ventricular Septal Defect

A ventricular septal defect is typically diagnosed soon after birth. The symptoms are influenced by the size of the ventricular septal defect. Common symptoms include:

• Heart murmur
• Heavy or fast breathing
• Shortness of breath
• Tiredness while feeding
• Sweating
• Poor weight gain

An echocardiogram is commonly conducted to confirm a ventricular septal defect.

Treatment of a Ventricular Septal Defect

Treatment depends on the size and location of the ventricular septal defect and possible cardiac problems that may arise later. If the opening is small and not presenting any symptoms, the patient will be regularly monitored to ensure that the opening closes on its own and there are no serious complications.

If the ventricular septal defect is large, the doctor may suggest open-heart surgery or cardiac catheterisation to close the opening. This will restore normal blood flow and prevent the onset of serious health issues later. Some medication may be prescribed to strengthen heart muscle and lower blood pressure.

For more details on cardiac birth defects, speak to our doctors today.