Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) refers to a congenital heart defect characterized by the presence of an abnormal opening or hole in the wall that separates the two lower chambers, or ventricles, of the heart. This defect occurs during fetal development when the muscular partition (septum) that separates the left and right ventricles fails to fully form, resulting in a hole.
The size and location of the ventricular septal defect can vary, ranging from small holes that may spontaneously close over time, to larger holes that cause significant flow disturbances. When a VSD is present, blood can flow through the hole from the left ventricle to the right ventricle, leading to abnormal circulation within the heart.
Individuals with ventricular septal defects may experience a variety of symptoms depending on the size and severity of the defect. These symptoms can include shortness of breath, fatigue, failure to thrive, frequent respiratory infections, and a heart murmur, which is caused by the turbulent blood flow across the hole detected during a physical examination.
Treatment options for ventricular septal defects may vary depending on the size, location, and symptoms associated with the defect. Small VSDs may close on their own without intervention, while larger defects may require surgical repair to close the hole and restore normal blood flow within the heart. In some cases, transcatheter procedures may be performed to close the VSD without open-heart surgery. Regular follow-up care is generally recommended to monitor the condition and ensure proper cardiac function.
