Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD, Endocardial Cushion Defect)

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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Ventricular Septal Defect
Category : Health Centers > Heart Diseases

Ventricular Septal Defect

Alternate Names : VSD, Endocardial Cushion Defect

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

Ventricular septal defect, VSD, is a congenital defect of the heart, or one present at birth. There is an abnormal opening in the wall that separates 2 chambers of the heart.

What is going on in the body?

The heart has 4 chambers. Two of these chambers are called ventricles. The right ventricle and the left ventricle are separated by a wall or septum. A defect or hole in this wall causes blood to flow abnormally between these 2 chambers. Ventricular septal defect is the most common congenital heart disease.

What are the causes and risks of the disease?

Although the cause of ventricular septal defect is unknown, it is more common with:

infections in the pregnant woman, such as rubella

Down syndrome

alcohol abuse, poor nutrition, or diabetes in the pregnant woman

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		Ventricular Septal Defect: Symptoms & Signs

Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN
Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
Date Reviewed: 07/24/01

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