Can Newborns with Ventricular Septal Defect Heal Naturally?

Whether a newborn with a ventricular septal defect (VSD) can heal naturally largely depends on the size of the defect and the pulmonary vascular resistance. Without medical intervention, approximately one-third of affected infants may face life-threatening complications or complex cardiac deformities within the first year of life. Although reports on the natural closure rate of VSD vary, most studies suggest a range between 21% and 63%. Smaller defects tend to close on their own more frequently than larger ones, and the likelihood of spontaneous closure is higher in children under the age of five, although exceptions do exist.

Understanding Spontaneous Closure of VSD

There have been documented cases where a VSD was found to have closed naturally during follow-up examinations around 20 days after birth. However, in other cases, some infants have unfortunately passed away shortly after birth due to severe complications associated with the defect. In particular, large VSDs can lead to rapid clinical deterioration, potentially resulting in acute left heart failure and early mortality.

Importance of Early Intervention for Large VSD

Given the potential for rapid disease progression, infants diagnosed with a large ventricular septal defect often require urgent surgical correction during the neonatal period. Delaying treatment can significantly reduce the chances of a successful outcome and increase the risk of irreversible damage to the heart and lungs.

Monitoring and Medical Management

For infants with smaller defects, regular monitoring through echocardiography and close follow-up with a pediatric cardiologist is essential. In some cases, medications may be prescribed to manage symptoms and support heart function while waiting for potential spontaneous closure. However, each case must be evaluated individually, and treatment decisions should be based on the overall clinical condition of the infant.