Should my 2-year old son need vsd closure?

Question

My 2- year old son is scheduled to undergo vsd closure next week. His VSD was detected when he was 3 months old. He is active like a normal child. ECG has been done twice at the national heart institute. The second ECG done was on August this year and the doctor said that my son's VSD is still there although very small. The problem based on what the doctor said is that the hole is very close to the valve and it may risk his heart if surgical procedure is not done. Since his birth, his health condition is good. I'm in dilemma now as whether the VSD closure is really needed or I have to wait for the possibilty that it may close on its own. I'm so worried as he is just a kid.

Answer 1

Weigh the "possibilities" here...if he doesn't go through the surgery the risk are.....heart damage/death...If he does go through the surgery....life, repaired heart. It doesn't matter how small the hole it's still there and it's been 2 years. My daughter has repaired tetralogy of fallot. I don't see any other option here. Yes you're going to be scared but you're a parent that's normal, but don't "NOT"do it out of your own fears. The medical advances for the heart are amazing in todays world. Be strong, pray and make the right choice.

Answer 2

An ECG does not determine the presence of a VSD any more than it establishes the need for surgery. Your son has certainly undergone cardiac sonography and that will demonstrate the size and location of the VSD but again no surgical decision may be based upon this. Indeed if a cardiac catherization has not been done it must be done prior to any recommendation regarding surery. It sounds as if the VSD is in the membranous septum in which case closure is most often advised. I know that such surgery is emotionally distressing - good luck.