Ventricular septal defect is a common congenital heart disease, which refers to an abnormal passage left by incomplete fusion of the interventricular septum during fetal growth and development due to congenital defects. The normal structure of the heart consists of two atria and two ventricles, with the interventricular septum being an important structure that separates the left and right ventricles. Ventricular septal defect is a hole or crack that appears in this structure, causing abnormal blood flow between the left and right ventricles.

Symptoms and Effects

The symptoms and progression of ventricular septal defect depend on the size of the defect. Small ventricular septal defects may remain asymptomatic for a long time, while large defects may lead to early symptoms such as decreased activity tolerance, increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, palpitations and shortness of breath after exertion, and in severe cases, may even develop into pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.

therapeutic method

There are currently multiple treatment methods available for ventricular septal defect, including surgical intervention, interventional closure, and drug therapy.

Surgical procedure:

Suitable for larger or complex types of ventricular septal defects that cannot be naturally closed or affect quality of life.

This includes open chest exploration, removal of abnormal tissue, and suturing repair, such as direct suturing through the right atrial incision or patch repair through the left ventricular incision.

Surgery can restore the normal structure and function of the heart, but the trauma is greater and the recovery time is longer.

Interventional closure surgery:

Suitable for small and appropriately located ventricular septal defects.

Using catheter technology to insert absorbable materials (such as Amplatzer occluders) into the defect site and seal the defect through their self expanding properties.

This method has minimal trauma and fast recovery, and has become the preferred treatment for small ventricular septal defects.

medication:

Mainly used to control symptoms and reduce cardiac burden, such as using diuretics, beta blockers, etc.

However, it should be noted that drug therapy cannot cure ventricular septal defect itself.

matters needing attention

Patients should undergo regular follow-up echocardiography to monitor changes in ventricular septal defect.

In daily life, it is important to maintain good sleep habits and avoid vigorous exercise to avoid increasing the burden on the heart.

If there are any discomfort symptoms, seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's advice for treatment.