Congenital heart defects can occur in babies during fetal development, leading to serious health issues if not treated properly. Ventricular septal defect (VDS) is one condition with a hole between the heart’s two lower chambers. Sometimes, the hole can be small and may not require any treatment. However, in other cases, the hole can be large. It may cause symptoms such as difficulty breathing, poor growth, and an increased risk of infections.
GS, a small baby weighing only 4.5 kg at 13 months, was brought to the RTIICS OPD to assess poor weight gain. After auscultation, her paediatrician suspected a heart disease. An echocardiogram confirmed a large 10 mm mid-muscular ventricular septal defect (VDS), causing a significant blood flow from the left to right heart chambers and through her lungs. As a result, her lungs were wet and susceptible to frequent infections, as confirmed by her parents, who reported that she suffered from frequent cough and cold episodes.
After a detailed discussion with the parents about the device closure procedure for the ventricular septal defect, consent was obtained for the closure. The procedure posed several challenges due to the size of the defect and the baby’s small weight. However, after carefully considering the anatomy, a 12 mm muscular ventricular septal defect closure device was chosen and placed across the defect to seal the hole through the neck vein.
Following recovery from the procedure and return to normal, the mother noticed an immediate improvement in her baby’s breathing pattern, and she began to eat better. After only two days of observation in the hospital, she was discharged home. Seven days later, when the parents returned for a follow-up check, they were delighted to see their baby girl’s significant improvement beyond their expectations. She was more playful, less out of breath, and asked to be fed.
Device closure of holes in the heart is a well-established and safe procedure in expert hands. In addition, this procedure provides a lifelong cure for the hole without leaving scar marks on the chest.
Dr Debasree Gangopadhyaya is one of the leading and eminent practising pediatric cardiologists with more than ten years of experience in Pediatric Cardiology. She holds immense experience in fetal echocardiography, pediatric echocardiography, adult congenital heart disease, and pediatric cardiac interventions. She has performed a lot of complicated procedures and helped patients recover. Some of these procedures are-
A ventricular septal defect (VDS) is a congenital heart defect that occurs when there is a hole in the wall (septum) between the two lower chambers (ventricles) of the heart.
Several treatment options are available for babies with large ventricular septal defects. The decision on the best course of action will depend on various factors, such as the size and location of the defect, the severity of symptoms, and the baby’s overall health.
You can also get in touch with the expert cardiology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.
The decision on the best treatment for a baby with a large ventricular septal defect will depend on several factors, such as the size and location of the defect, the severity of symptoms, and the overall health of the baby. Parents should discuss all available options with their child’s doctor and consider the pros and cons of each treatment option before making a decision.
The treatment plan may need to be adjusted over time as the baby grows and develops. Regular follow-up appointments with a pediatric cardiologist will help ensure that the baby’s heart is functioning correctly and that any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan are made.
Q: How is a large ventricular septal defect detected?
A: A large ventricular septal defect can be detected through an echocardiogram, a type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to create heart images.
Q: Is device closure the only treatment option for a large ventricular septal defect in a small baby?
A: Other treatment options are available, including medication and surgery. Your pediatric cardiologist can help you choose the best treatment for your baby.
Q: How can I prepare my baby for a device closure procedure?
A: Your pediatric cardiologist will provide detailed instructions on preparing your baby for the procedure. This may include fasting for a particular duration before the procedure and avoiding certain medications.
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