A ventricular septal defect is an opening between the left and right ventricles. It is a common congenital malformation.
This ventricular septal defect allows oxygenated blood to mix with “deoxygenated” blood. The consequence is an increased workload for the ventricles and therefore heart failure.
Symptoms
Shortness of breath or fatigue on exertion, palpitations... (symptoms of heart failure).
Affected infants are more prone to respiratory infections.
Treatments
The ventricular septal defect will be closed surgically.
Diuretics, digitalis, sodium restriction and treatment of respiratory infections while awaiting surgery if the situation is stable.
