Ventricular Septal Defect

A ventricular septal defect is a hole between the two pumping chambers of the heart, which are called the ventricles. This condition allows a certain amount of blood to flow from the left ventricle across the hole to the right ventricle and out to the lungs, which causes the heart to have to work harder than normal. Usually, the hole is quite small, and over time it may close completely on its own. But in about five percent of cases, surgical closure is needed. Unlike some other congenital heart defects, a ventricular septal defect (VSD) is often the only thing wrong with the heart – though other holes or narrowed valves may be present. In most cases, the condition can be managed via medications provided to the infant that avoid the need to do surgery later. When surgery is needed, it is typically performed between four months and three years of age, with generally good results.