Ventricular septal defect
Congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening in the wall separating the right and left ventricles, causing left-to-right shunting.
Full Definition
A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital heart defect, consisting of an abnormal communication between the right and left ventricles through the interventricular septum. VSDs can occur in different locations (muscular, perimembranous, supracristal, or inlet) and vary in size from small restrictive defects to large nonrestrictive ones. The hemodynamic consequences depend on the size of the defect and pulmonary vascular resistance. Small VSDs may close spontaneously during childhood, while large defects can lead to congestive heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, and Eisenmenger syndrome if left untreated. Treatment options include medical management, transcatheter device closure, or surgical repair.
Usage
Usage note: Specify location and size when documenting ventricular septal defects.
In Context
- "Echocardiography revealed a moderate-sized perimembranous ventricular septal defect with left-to-right shunting." — Pediatric cardiology consultation
- "The patient's ventricular septal defect was successfully closed using a transcatheter Amplatzer device." — Interventional procedure report