Understanding Ventricular Septal Defect: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a common congenital heart defect that occurs in infants. It is characterized by a hole in the wall (septum) between the heart's two lower chambers, called the ventricles. This defect allows oxygenated and deoxygenated blood to mix, causing the heart to work harder and potentially leading to complications if left untreated.

What Causes Ventricular Septal Defect?

The exact cause of VSD is unknown, but it is believed to develop during fetal development. The defect occurs when the septum fails to form completely, leaving one or more holes. VSDs can vary in size and location within the septum.

Symptoms of Ventricular Septal Defect

Symptoms of VSD depend on the size of the hole and the amount of blood flowing through it. Small VSDs may not cause any noticeable symptoms, but larger defects can lead to:

• Fast breathing

• Sweating

• Pale skin

• Rapid heartbeat

• Difficulty feeding

• Poor weight gain

In some cases, untreated VSDs can cause more severe symptoms, such as:

• Fainting

• Shortness of breath

• Chest pain

• Bluish discoloration of the skin (cyanosis)

Diagnosing Ventricular Septal Defect

VSDs are often detected during a physical examination when a doctor hears a heart murmur using a stethoscope. To confirm the diagnosis, several tests may be performed, including:

• Echocardiogram: An ultrasound of the heart that can show the size and location of the VSD

• Chest X-ray: Helps assess heart size and signs of fluid in the lungs

• Electrocardiogram (ECG): Evaluates the electrical activity of the heart and can indicate ventricular hypertrophy

• Cardiac catheterization: A minimally invasive procedure used to measure pressures inside the heart and assess the severity of the defect

Treatment Options for Ventricular Septal Defect

Treatment for VSD depends on the size of the defect and the severity of symptoms. Small VSDs may close on their own as the child grows, while larger defects may require medical intervention or surgery.

Medical Treatment

In some cases, medication may be prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the workload on the heart. Common medications include:

• Vasodilators: Help reduce the work of the left ventricle

• Digoxin: Strengthens the heart muscle to cope with increased blood volume

• Diuretics: Remove excess fluid from the body, easing the heart's workload

Surgical Treatment

Large VSDs that do not close on their own may require surgical repair. The most common procedure involves placing a patch over the hole to prevent blood from flowing between the ventricles. In some cases, the defect may be closed using a device inserted through a cardiac catheterization procedure.

Follow-Up Care and Prevention

Children with VSDs require regular check-ups and echocardiograms to monitor the defect and assess their growth and development. Although VSDs cannot be prevented during pregnancy, early detection and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

If you suspect your child may have a ventricular septal defect, consult your pediatrician or a pediatric cardiologist for proper diagnosis and treatment. With appropriate care, most children with VSDs can lead healthy, active lives.

The Bottom Line

Most small ventricular septal defects close naturally without treatment, but larger ones require timely intervention to prevent permanent lung damage from increased blood flow. Early recognition of feeding difficulties, rapid breathing, or poor weight gain is crucial for proper timing of repair. If you notice these warning signs in your child, Doctronic can help you understand next steps and connect with appropriate cardiac care.