The term “heart defect” can be the name for a variety of heart problems, but it’s usually used to describe defects in the wall, or septum, dividing the upper or lower heart chambers. It may also describe problems with the heart valve. The more common defects are listed below.
- Atrial septal defect (ASD). This is a common birth defect that occurs when the wall between the heart’s upper chambers bears a hole. This results in more work for the heart and damaged lungs.
- Patent foramen ovale (PFO). The foramen oval is an opening between the heart’s upper chambers that close soon after a baby is born. If the opening does not close, the result is an open, or patent, foramen ovale, or PFO. This usually does not require treatment.
- Ventricular septal defect (VSD). This is a hole between the ventricles, the lower chambers of the heart. This makes the heart work harder.
- Aortic valve stenosis or insufficiency. The aortic valve allows blood rich in oxygen to flow from the heart into the aorta, the main artery to distribute blood around your body. When the aortic valve is missing a “leaflet”, the valve can become leaky (insufficiency) or narrowed (stenosis).
- Pulmonary valve stenosis. The pulmonary valve is the valve that blood that is no longer carrying oxygen is passed through to enter the lungs. Pulmonary valve stenosis occurs when this valve is narrowed.
Diagnostic Tests
- 3D Echo
- Cardiac Catheterization
- Cardiac MRI
- Echocardiography
- Electrocardiograms (EKG, ECG)
- Intracardiac Echo (ICE)
- Stress Testing
- Cardiac Rehab
- Heart Failure Management
