VSD Surgery How Many Hours Are Required

Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) surgery duration varies depending on several factors including the location and size of the defect, the patient's age, the severity of the condition, and whether there are any associated complications. Based on these factors, doctors may recommend different treatment approaches such as catheter-based intervention, thoracoscopic surgery, or a traditional median sternotomy. Each method has its own benefits and is chosen according to the individual needs of the patient.

Types of VSD Treatments and Their Average Durations

Interventional Catheterization: This minimally invasive technique typically takes between 30 to 50 minutes. It is often preferred for smaller defects that are suitable for closure using a device inserted through a blood vessel.

Thoracoscopic or Mini-Sternotomy Approaches: These procedures usually require around 1.5 to 2 hours. They involve small incisions and the use of specialized tools to repair the defect with less trauma to the chest area.

Traditional Open-Heart Surgery (Median Sternotomy): In more complex cases where other methods are not viable, a full open-heart procedure may be necessary. This method generally takes longer, often between 2 to 3 hours, as it involves opening the chest bone and placing the patient on a heart-lung bypass machine.

Why Surgery Time Shouldn't Be the Main Focus

While it's natural to wonder how long the surgery will take, it's far more important to focus on selecting the most appropriate and effective treatment method. Experienced surgeons prioritize patient safety and long-term outcomes over speed. The ultimate goal is to ensure a full recovery and a healthy heart, not simply to minimize time in the operating room.