Congenital defects are present from birth. With atrioventricular (AV) septal defects, the centre portion of the heart fails to completely develop prior to birth. This allows excess blood to flow to the lungs, which causes strain on the heart and can lead to serious complications like heart failure and pulmonary hypertension.
While it can depend on the type and severity of the malformation, surgery is often necessary to prevent more serious health issues.
Doctors can sometimes diagnose this congenital condition prior to birth using an ultrasound. After birth, the condition can cause a heart murmur, rapid breathing, and laboured breathing. However, symptoms vary according to the category of AV septal defects:
Doctors are not fully sure why AV septal defects occur. People with Down syndrome, a genetic condition, have a higher chance of developing an AV septal defect. However, people without the condition can also develop this congenital heart problem.
Complete and partial AV septal defects require surgery. Surgeons can place mesh material inside the heart, which prevents extra blood flow to the lungs. Other procedures are also necessary and vary according to the type of AV septal defect that occurs. For instance, mitral valve repair or replacement and valve separation may be necessary.
Lifelong monitoring by a cardiologist is needed for any major heart defect. In some cases, monitoring continues into adulthood. Some patients also require preventative antibiotics prior to unrelated surgical procedures to offset the higher risk of infection that accompanies heart defects.