Question
When should a child with congenital ventricular septal defect undergo surgery?
Answer
The specific treatment method for a child with congenital ventricular septal defect depends on the condition. If the ventricular defect is less than 5 millimeters, observation and follow-up with a cardiac ultrasound every six months can be considered; if the ventricular defect is greater than 5 millimeters, checks should be conducted every 3 to 4 months, and changes in pulmonary artery pressure should be monitored. When the pulmonary artery pressure exceeds 50 millimeters of mercury, immediate consideration for surgery should be given. Children with ventricular defects larger than 10 millimeters should have regular ultrasound examinations to detect problems in a timely manner. Currently, most recommendations suggest undergoing surgery before the age of 2, ideally before the age of 10. For some children with ventricular septal defects, interventional therapy can replace open chest surgery.