A ventricular septal defect (VSD) is a heart defect that is present at birth (congenital). A VSD is a hole in the wall that separates the two lower chambers. This hole lets oxygen-rich (red) blood mix with oxygen-poor (blue) blood. With too much blood getting pumped into the lungs, the heart works harder and much less efficiently.
Condition
Ventricular Septal Defect
A hole in the wall of the heart
At the Herma Heart Institute, we understand the fears and challenges facing families like yours. We are here to answer all your questions and support you in every step of your congenital heart disease (CHD) journey. Our team provides expert heart care that fits what your child needs. We care for patients of all ages and stages — from before birth and into adulthood.
What Is a Ventricular Septal Defect
Ventricular Septal Defect Treatments We Offer
Small VSDs may ultimately close on their own. They often require no treatment other than regular checkups. There are no medications or treatments that speed the closure process.
Heart Surgery or Cath Procedure
If a VSD is large, causing symptoms that are not going away, or causing other problems in the heart, heart surgery is usually needed. Surgery often takes place within the first six months after birth to minimize the symptoms, but it can also happen later depending on the patient's situation. During surgery, stiches or a special patch are used to close the hole. The procedure may be performed in the operating room or by cardiac catheterization, depending on your child's needs.
Medications
Medications may help with symptoms prior to closure, and many patients will be on medications temporarily following closure.
Why Choose the Herma Heart Institute
Outstanding outcomes: If your child needs surgery, you’ll have access to world-class heart surgeons. The Herma Heart Institute has some of the best results for even the most complex types of heart disease.
Care close to home: The Herma Heart Institute has 10 clinic locations. These clinics can be found in Wisconsin and upper Michigan.
Lifelong support: We provide care to our patients in all ages and stages of life — from before birth through adulthood. Your fetal heart doctor can care for your child through their childhood. As they age, they can transition into our Adult Congenital Heart Disease Program.
Commitment to innovation: Our team is leading the way in congenital heart disease research. We are working to discover breakthrough treatments and procedures to improve outcomes.
Support beyond the clinic: We know that our heart families need support that extends beyond the clinic. That’s why we invest in programs that help children thrive and get them back to being kids sooner:
What To Expect
For some families, it can be helpful to come prepared with a plan before of your appointment with a cardiologist. Here are things to consider documenting and having ready for your appointment:
- Symptoms your child is experiencing: Sharing when these symptoms appeared and how frequently they occur is helpful to the medical team. Don’t be afraid to share symptoms that seem unrelated — congenital heart disease can affect other parts of the body.
- Medications: This should also include any supplements or vitamins your child takes.
- Related history: This includes family medical history and recent changes in your family's life.
- Your Questions: This will help ensure you don't forget to ask all your questions. It is okay to as the same question several times if you are unclear. Our team is here to help you understand the big picture and make sure you walk away with your questions answered.
For most children with a VSD, the condition will have few long-term effects if properly treated. Your child will need regular checkups with their cardiologist to confirm their heart continues to work well. Normally no medications or additional surgeries are needed as your child gets older.
Once your child reaches adulthood, they should seek out a program that specializes in adult congenital heart disease. The Herma Heart Institute's Adult Congenital Heart Disease program is the largest in the state.
Consult your child's physician for specifics regarding your child's future needs and outlook.
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Our Doctors
At Children's Wisconsin, our doctors are 100% committed to the health and well-being of kids. They care for every aspect of a child's health, including their physical, social, dental and mental well-being. We are a community of dedicated professionals who shares an unwavering passion to care for kids whenever and wherever they need us.
