What problems do children with a ventricular septal defect have?
If the hole is small, usually no treatment is needed because many of these defects will close on their own. However, a baby with a VSD should be checked regularly by a doctor to make sure that the hole eventually closes properly and that more serious problems do not occur. If a defect does not close on its own, the baby often will need surgery. If not treated with surgery, some babies can have additional problems in life. These problems can include: • Heart failure • Infections in the heart, often called Infective endocarditis • Leaking of the valve that separates the left ventricle from the aorta, often called aortic insufficiency • Abnormal heart rhythms, called arrhythmias • Delayed growth and development • High blood pressure in the lungs Some children with a VSD will need to take antibiotics before undergoing dental work and certain other surgical procedures. Some babies and children will need to take additional medications for blood pressure and other issues. Luckily, the diagnos
