An abnormal opening in the septum (between the heart's ventricles) is a sign of ventricular septal defects (VSDs), which are congenital heart defects. By doing so, oxygen-rich blood is pumped from the left ventricle into the right ventricle, which pumps oxygen-poor blood into the lungs. Its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention methods are outlined below.
During fetal development, VSDs occur when the septum fails to fully form, resulting in an opening between the ventricles.
Several genetic syndromes or chromosomal abnormalities may increase the risk of VSDs, including Down syndrome and DiGeorge syndrome.
During pregnancy, certain medications, infections, or environmental toxins may contribute to the development of VSDs.
People with a family history of congenital heart defects may have an increased risk of having a child with one.
As a result of turbulent blood flow through the VSD, a characteristic heart murmur may be heard during a physical examination.
During feeding or exertion, infants and children with large VSDs may experience rapid breathing or shortness of breath.
In infants with significant VSDs, poor weight gain or failure to thrive may occur due to increased work of breathing and inadequate oxygenation.
During physical activity, children and adults with VSDs may feel fatigued or weak.
Inflammation and congestion of the lungs may lead to recurrent respiratory infections in individuals with VSDs.
Medical history review, physical examination, and diagnostic tests are typically used to diagnose ventricular septal defects:
Gathering information about a family history of congenital heart defects, the health of the mother during pregnancy, and any symptoms or signs of heart disease.
Listening for characteristic heart murmurs and assessing for respiratory distress and heart failure.
VSDs are visualized, assessed, and evaluated using echocardiography, a diagnostic test.
A resting ECG can be performed to assess the heart's electrical activity and detect any abnormalities associated with the VSD.
An X-ray of the chest may be done to determine the size and shape of the heart and to assess for signs of fluid accumulation in the lungs or congestion of the lungs.
Ventricular septal defects are treated according to their size, location, severity, and associated symptoms:
Small VSDs that are asymptomatic and not causing significant heart problems may be monitored periodically without immediate treatment.
For patients with heart failure or pulmonary congestion, medications such as diuretics or blood pressure medications may be prescribed.
A surgical repair of the VSD may be recommended if the defect is large or causing complications. The septum opening is usually patched or sutured during open-heart surgery.
Procedures utilizing catheters: Certain smaller VSDs can be closed using catheter-based techniques, such as transcatheter device closure, which involves inserting a closure device through a catheter and deploying it to seal the defect.
Individuals with VSD repair or residual defects may require ongoing cardiac monitoring and follow-up care to monitor for recurrence, complications, or long-term effects on the heart.
The risk of VSDs can be reduced by seeking regular prenatal care and avoiding known risk factors, such as smoking, alcohol, or certain medications.
Individuals with a family history of congenital heart defects and genetic syndromes associated with VSDs may benefit from genetic counseling to assess their risk.
Pregnant women are advised to take folic acid supplements to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and certain congenital heart defects, including VSDs.
The prevention of VSDs and other congenital abnormalities may be achieved by minimizing exposure to environmental toxins, pollutants, and medications known to increase the risk of birth defects.
An early diagnosis of VSDs through prenatal ultrasound screening and prompt medical evaluation of any signs or symptoms of congenital heart defects can facilitate early intervention.
