NICU - Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

NICU
Neonates, Infant, Newborn, Baby, Preemie
Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

What is Ventricular Septal Defect?
Information courtesy of Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [Source]

A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a heart condition that is present at birth and often is called a congenital defect. A VSD occurs when there is a hole (defect) in the wall (septum) that separates the two lower chambers of the heart, called ventricles. This hole between the heart chambers disrupts the flow of blood and oxygen to the body.

Treatment and Ongoing Symptoms

If the hole is small, usually no treatment is needed because many of these defects will close on their own. However, a baby with a VSD should be checked regularly by a doctor to make sure that the hole eventually closes properly and that more serious problems do not occur.

If a defect does not close on its own, the baby often will need surgery. If not treated with surgery, some babies can have additional problems in life. These problems can include:

Heart failure
Infections in the heart, often called Infective endocarditis
Leaking of the valve that separates the left ventricle from the aorta, often called aortic insufficiency
Abnormal heart rhythms, called arrhythmias
Delayed growth and development
High blood pressure in the lungs

Some children with a VSD will need to take antibiotics before undergoing dental work and certain other surgical procedures. Some babies and children will need to take additional medications for blood pressure and other issues.

Luckily, the diagnosis and treatment of VSDs have improved greatly. As a result, a child with a simple heart defect can grow to adulthood and live a normal, active, and productive life.