Atrioventricular Septal Defect

Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD) is a congenital heart condition where there is a defect in the walls separating the heart's chambers—specifically, the atria (upper chambers) and ventricles (lower chambers). This results in a combined opening that allows blood to flow improperly between the chambers, leading to mixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood. This abnormal blood flow can cause the heart to work harder, and may lead to symptoms like breathing difficulties, fatigue, and growth delays in infants. AVSD often requires medical management, and surgery can correct the structural defect, improving heart function.