Condition
Pediatric Atrioventricular Canal (AV canal or AVC)
What You Need to Know
An atrioventricular (AV) canal defect is a large hole in the center of the heart.Key Symptoms
Babies with AV canal defects often have symptoms that can include tiredness, sweating, fast heart rate and other symptoms.
Diagnosis
Your child may be diagnosed by ultrasound during pregnancy.
Treatment
All children with an AV canal defect will need to have surgery to fix it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an atrioventricular canal defect in a child?
What causes an AV canal defect in a child?
What are the symptoms of an AV canal defect in a child?
How is an AV canal defect diagnosed in a child?
How is an AV canal defect treated in a child?
What are possible complications of an AV canal defect in a child?
How can I help my child live with an AV canal defect?
Penelope's Story
Before Penelope was even born, she had a team of Children's specialists ready with a treatment plan for her heart defect.
Departments that Treat Atrioventricular Canal (AV canal or AVC)
![Dr. Jim Park fist bumps young patient](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/0-brand-images/patient-provider-interactions/jim-park-fist-bump.jpg)
Children's National Heart Center
Our expert pediatric heart team, including more than 40 subspecialties, offer advanced heart care and excellent outcomes for thousands of children every year.
![Pediatric cardiologist, Ashraf Saud Harahsheh, M.D, checks a patient’s pulse.](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/departments/cardiology/harahsheh.jpg)
Cardiology
The pediatric heart experts at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., provide advanced cardiology care for unborn babies, children and young adults with heart conditions.
![A baby with a stethoscope.](/-/media/cnhs-site/images/blogs/all-istock-photos/baby-with-a-stethoscope.jpg)
The Zickler Family Prenatal Pediatrics Institute
The Zickler Family Prenatal Pediatrics Institute at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C., provides specialized care for babies during pregnancy, delivery and after birth.