Repairing Ventricular Septal Defects: What Materials Are Commonly Used?

During cardiac surgical procedures, repairing a ventricular septal defect (VSD) often involves the use of patches. For larger VSDs, direct suturing can be risky, especially in infants and young children, due to the high tension that may lead to tearing or displacement during heart contractions. Therefore, using a patch helps reduce tension and provides better structural support at the repair site.

Types of Materials Used for VSD Repair

Several materials are available for repairing ventricular septal defects, each with its own advantages and clinical applications. Common options include Dacron patches, Gore-Tex patches, and bovine pericardial patches. However, one of the most widely used materials is autologous pericardium fixed with glutaraldehyde.

Why Autologous Pericardium Is Preferred

Autologous pericardium is favored because it is derived from the patient's own body, significantly lowering the risk of immune rejection or adverse reactions. After treatment with glutaraldehyde, this tissue becomes more durable and easier to handle during surgery while maintaining biocompatibility. As a result, glutaraldehyde-fixed autologous pericardial patches are currently the most commonly used material for VSD closure in clinical practice.

Comparing Other Patch Materials

While synthetic materials like Dacron and Gore-Tex are also used, they may carry a higher risk of calcification or infection over time. Bovine pericardium, although not autologous, is another biologic option that offers good handling properties and has been used successfully in many cases. However, due to its xenograft nature, it may not be as ideal as autologous tissue in pediatric patients.

Conclusion

In summary, selecting the appropriate material for repairing a ventricular septal defect depends on various factors, including the patient's age, defect size, and overall cardiac anatomy. Among the available choices, glutaraldehyde-treated autologous pericardium remains the gold standard due to its excellent biocompatibility, ease of use, and long-term clinical outcomes.