Small VSDs
Babies with small VSDs may have no symptoms. These children may not need medicine. They’ll still be checked often by their heart doctors. If a defect is going to close, it usually happens by age 2 . But some defects don’t close until age 4. These children usually grow and develop normally. They also have no activity restrictions and live normal, healthy lives.
Moderate to Severe VSDs
If the VSD is moderate to severe, your child’s heart doctor will closely monitor him or her. The doctor will decide when and how your child’s ventricular septal defect will be fixed. Before surgery, your child may need medicine and special feedings. Your child's healthcare team will give you information and support so you can care for your child at home. Children who need surgery will be admitted to the hospital for surgery.
Babies who have trouble eating before surgery often have more energy right after surgery. They start to eat better and gain weight faster.
After surgery, older children can often be active without getting too tired. Within a few weeks, your child should be fully recovered. He or she should be able to do normal activities. Your child’s healthcare team may give you instructions on how to care for your child.
Most children who have surgery for VSD will live normal, healthy lives. Their activity levels, appetite, and growth often return to normal. Your child's heart doctor may give him or her antibiotics to prevent infections after leaving the hospital.
Ask your child's healthcare provider about your child’s outlook. When this condition is diagnosed early, the outcome is often excellent. The outlook may be poor when a VSD is diagnosed later in life, if complications occur after surgery, or if the VSD isn’t fixed. There is a risk for complications from a VSD. Children at risk for these problems should have follow-up care at a center that specializes in congenital heart disease.