Skip to main content

Condition

Pediatric Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

Key Points About Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) in Children

  • A VSD is an opening in the dividing wall between the two lower chambers of the heart.
  • The size of the opening affects how severe your child’s symptoms are.
  • Small VSDs may close on their as your child grows. If your child has a larger VSD, he or she will likely need surgery or a cardiac catheterization to fix it.
  • Most children whose defects close on their own or who have VSD repairs will live normal, healthy lives.

Appointments

Our team is standing by to schedule your child’s appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is a ventricular septal defect?

What causes a VSD in children?

What are the symptoms of a VSD in children?

How is a VSD diagnosed in children?

How is a VSD treated in children?

What are possible complications of a VSD in children?

How can I help my child live with a VSD?

When should I call my child's healthcare provider?

Cardiac Surgery at Children's National Hospital

The pediatric heart surgery team at Children's National Hospital performs twice the number of surgeries of any other hospital in the region, with some of the best outcomes in the nation. Discover more about how we can help your child.

Cardiac Surgery Outcomes Data

Learn about some of the lifesaving surgeries our pediatric heart experts perform each year at Children's National. Find data about the number of operations, how long children stay in the hospital after surgery (length of stay), and how well they recover after surgery (outcomes). 

PATIENT STORY

Providers Who Treat Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

  • Jul 22, 2024

    Helping Maddie to Live Life to the Fullest

    Maddie is a lively, creative teen who loves to act. Research at Children's National Hospital helps to ensure that her rare disease doesn"t upstage her big theater plans or her love of life.

Departments that Treat Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

    Prenatal Cardiology Program

    Children diagnosed with heart conditions before they are born receive comprehensive, expert care from our fetal cardiology specialists. Learn more about our Prenatal Cardiology Program.