Congenital malformations of cardiac septa Save

Congenital Malformations of Cardiac Septa: Overview

Congenital malformations of cardiac septa refer to structural abnormalities in the walls that divide different chambers of the heart. These malformations can cause a range of symptoms and complications, including heart failure, arrhythmias, and stroke.

There are several types of congenital malformations of cardiac septa, each with its own unique characteristics and effects on the heart. These include:

1. Ventricular septal defects (VSDs): These are holes in the wall that separates the two ventricles of the heart. They can cause blood to flow from the left ventricle to the right ventricle, leading to increased pressure in the lungs and decreased oxygen levels in the body.
2. Atrial septal defects (ASDs): These are holes in the wall that separates the two atria of the heart. They can cause blood to flow from the left atrium to the right atrium, leading to increased pressure in the lungs and decreased oxygen levels in the body.
3. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA): This is a condition in which the ductus arteriosus, a blood vessel that connects the pulmonary artery to the aorta in the fetus, fails to close after birth. This can cause increased blood flow to the lungs and decreased oxygen levels in the body.
4. Tetralogy of Fallot: This is a rare condition that involves several malformations of the heart, including a VSD, pulmonary stenosis (narrowing of the pulmonary valve), an overriding aorta (aorta that is shifted to the right), and right ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of the right ventricle). This can cause decreased oxygen levels in the body and cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin).

Congenital malformations of cardiac septa are typically diagnosed through physical examination, imaging tests (such as echocardiography and cardiac catheterization), and other diagnostic procedures.

Treatment for these conditions may include medications (such as diuretics and beta blockers), surgery (such as closure of the VSD or ASD), or other interventions (such as balloon valvuloplasty or stenting).

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a congenital malformation of cardiac septa, it is important to work closely with your healthcare team to determine the best course of treatment and manage any symptoms or complications that may arise.