Atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD)

AVSD may be found during pregnancy or after birth. Complete AVSD can cause feeding difficulties, fast breathing, sweating or poor growth in a baby. Partial forms may be found later. A doctor may hear a murmur, an extra sound during the heartbeat, or investigate another concern. AVSD is linked with Down syndrome, but children without Down syndrome can have it too.

An echocardiogram, or echo, is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It shows the openings, the valve and how well the chambers pump. An ECG records the heart’s electrical signals. Other tests may answer further questions. Checking growth and breathing helps the team see the effects on daily life.

Ask whether both lower pumping chambers, called ventricles, are well developed and whether there are other heart differences.

Surgery is usually needed to close the openings and repair the valve. Medicines or feeding support may help before surgery. The timing and type of operation depend on how the heart is formed and the child’s health. Some children need more valve treatment later. Ask the team to explain this possibility for your child.

Complete, partial and intermediate AVSD describe different forms of the condition. The size of the pumping chambers and the amount of valve leakage can change the care plan. After surgery, checks look at the valve, any remaining openings and the pattern of heartbeats. These checks remain important even when a child feels well.

Ask for the full name of the diagnosis and a drawing showing the valves. If your child has additional health or developmental needs, ask how the heart team and other services will coordinate care, appointments, feeding advice and support for school.