Atrioventricular Canal Defect
A complex congenital heart defect involving abnormal development of the central portion of the heart with deficient atrioventricular septation.
Full Definition
Atrioventricular canal defect, also known as atrioventricular septal defect or endocardial cushion defect, is a congenital malformation resulting from incomplete development of the endocardial cushions. This results in a spectrum of defects including atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect, and abnormal atrioventricular valve formation. The condition can be partial, transitional, or complete, depending on the extent of septal deficiency. It is commonly associated with Down syndrome and requires surgical repair to prevent pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as AVSD or AVC; three types: partial, transitional, and complete.
In Context
- "Complete atrioventricular canal defect was diagnosed on prenatal ultrasound." — Prenatal report
- "The patient with Down syndrome presented with a large atrioventricular canal defect requiring early surgical intervention." — Case presentation