Requirements & Evaluation: Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Treatment
The diagnosis of VSD is established based on symptoms, a physical exam, and imaging tests. During the physical examination, the doctor may discover VSD by heart murmur. When the VSD defect size is large, it causes a heart murmur.
Imaging to diagnose VSD is an echocardiogram, electrocardiogram, chest X-ray, CT scan and cardiac catheterization:
Size and effects of VSD
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Small
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3 mm or less
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No symptoms. The defect closes on its own.
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Moderate
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3-5 mm
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No symptoms. Surgery is deleted because the defect may close without surgery.
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Large
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6-10 mm
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Surgery should be done before 2 years to prevent damage to the heart and lungs.
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Different Types of VSD Closure
VSD closure is of two types:
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Surgery: The objective of the surgical approach is to close the ventricular septal defect by patching it surgically. A patch of synthetic material or graft of own tissue can be used by the surgeon to close the defect.
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Transcatheter procedures: In this procedure, a Catheter device is used made of a mesh framework which is covered in a synthetic material.
Procedure
Before the Procedure
The doctor performs a physical examination and advice following investigations.
VSD closure is advisable within 3-6 months of age.
After the Procedure
The healthcare team supports parents in taking care of the child. Follow-up appointments are scheduled.
What kind of follow-up care will I have during recovery?
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To take regular follow-ups
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To take prescribed medicines on time
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Good nutrition.
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To maintain good oral hygiene
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Antibiotic prophylaxis
Risk & Benefits
What are the possible risks or complications of Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Treatment?
VSD closure is a safe procedure. VSD surgery reduces complications of lung problems, heart failure, arrhythmias, heart valve problems, and poor growth and development.
Recovery
How long will it take to return to normal life after Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) Treatment?
It may take a few weeks for your child to resume a normal routine. Initially, the child may feel tired but with time the symptoms will improve.
A pediatric cardiologist will schedule a follow-up to monitor treatment success and assess complications, if any. Medications are evaluated. Additional investigations may be prescribed.
In the long term, outcomes achieved by VSD closure are excellent. No medicines are required. The patient has a completely normal life without restrictions and complications after VSD surgery.
