Ventricular Septal Defect or VSD is a defect in the wall of the heart that divides the Right and Left ventricles
Can be seen in newborns and make up almost 50% of all congenital heart defects of newborns
It is more often known as a congenital defect
Somewhat similar to Atrial Septal defect
Symptoms
- Cardiac murmur
- Increase cardiac pressure
- Right sided heart failure
- Pulmonary hypertension
- Cyanosis
Diagnosis
- ECG is helpful in some cases depending on size
- X-ray can be useful
- Echocardiography/Doppler is essential to confirm the diagnosis
- MRI and CT can often visualize the defect itself.
Treatment
- Most ventricular septal defects resolve on their own [spontaneously]
Medications:
- Digoxin [Cardiac glycosides]
- Furosemide [Loop Diuretic]
- Captopril {ACE inhibitor]
Antibiotic treatment to limit possible Endocarditis
Surgery
Percutaneous closure devices if available
Look at the following video for further explanation:
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