Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
ventricular septal defect
A congenital heart defect characterized by an abnormal opening in the wall between the heart's two lower chambers.
Full Definition
A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is the most common congenital heart defect, involving an abnormal communication between the left and right ventricles. VSDs are classified anatomically as perimembranous, muscular, inlet, or outlet defects. The hemodynamic significance depends on the size of the defect and pulmonary vascular resistance. Small VSDs may close spontaneously, while larger defects can lead to congestive heart failure and pulmonary hypertension if left untreated. Surgical closure may be required for hemodynamically significant defects.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as VSD; distinguish from ASD in documentation.
In Context
- "The large perimembranous ventricular septal defect required surgical patch closure." — Surgical consultation note
- "Serial echocardiograms showed progressive closure of the muscular ventricular septal defect." — Follow-up report
Also known as
VSD
Contrasted with
intact ventricular septum
Don't confuse with
atrial septal defect
atrioventricular septal defect