Heart Disease - Congenital AVSD

AVSD congenital heart disease occurs during the first eight weeks of a baby’s development in the womb. AVSD, shorthand for atrioventricular septal defects, is a result of the membranous and muscular atrioventricular septum developing abnormally - congenital heart disease while that little “he” or “she” was only eight weeks beyond conception.

AVSD congenital heart disease can be complete or only partial, depending on how severe the abnormality is.

Definition

A heart “septum” is a wall between the heart’s left and right sides. It separates the two atria (upper chambers) or the two ventricles (lower chambers). The septum between the two heart atria is a thin membrane, while the one between the two heart ventricles is thick and muscular. In AVSD congenital heart disease, a septal defect - defect in the septum - develops. The defect is sometimes called a “hole” in the heart. AVSD congenital heart disease can result in a small or large hole in one or more parts of the septum.

The Problem

A small defect between the atria or ventricles is not likely to strain the heart. In such cases of AVSD congenital heart disease, the only abnormal finding will be a loud heart murmur.

If there is a large “hole” between the atria or ventricles, blood from the left side of the heart will be forced through the “hole” into the right side. This blood is already rich in oxygen, but the heart will pump it back to the lungs where it will take priority over blood that needs oxygen. The heart then must pump more blood, meaning that it must work harder. The added work load may cause the heart to enlarge. In addition, the excess blood in the lungs may cause high Blood Pressure in the lungs’ blood vessels. This may gradually cause permanent damage to blood vessels.

AVSD can accompany other complex congenital heart disease, complicating both.

Surgical Treatment of AVSD Congenital Heart Disease

Surgeons can close atrial septal defects (ASD) while your child is young, and prevent serious problems from developing later in life. They can also repair them in adulthood if the heart disease is not diagnosed before that. The “hole” is usually closed by sewing a patch over it. The normal lining of the heart gradually covers the patch and makes it part of the heart. Some surgeons prefer to close the “hole” without a patch, simply stitching the two sides together.

When AVSD congenital heart disease involves small ventricular septal defects (VSD) surgery may not be needed. These often close during childhood or adolescence without intervention. If the “hole” is large, however, cardiologists recommend closing it before the child reaches age two, even if there are few heart disease symptoms. This is done to prevent future problems. When a VSD is repaired, blood circulation becomes normal.

Does your child’s AVSD congenital heart disease require surgery? Your cardiologist will determine if the “hole” should be closed. If surgery is recommended, you can expect long-term improvement.

CAUTION: The information above is for educational purposes only. If you have symptoms that you believe may be related to heart disease, please see your doctor immediately.