What Is an AV Canal Defect?
An atrioventricular (AV) canal defect, also called an atrioventricular septal defect (AVSD), is a congenital heart defect in which there is an abnormal opening between the heart’s chambers and problems with the heart’s AV valves. This condition allows oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood to mix, making the heart work harder to pump blood efficiently.
AV canal defects are present at birth and are commonly associated with Down syndrome, although they can occur in anyone.
Why an AV Canal Defect Matters
Without treatment, an AV canal defect can lead to heart failure, pulmonary hypertension, poor growth in infants, and permanent damage to the heart and lungs.
Common Symptoms
- Rapid breathing
- Difficulty feeding in infants
- Poor weight gain
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
- Frequent respiratory infections
- Heart murmur
How Is an AV Canal Defect Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose AV canal defects using a physical examination, echocardiogram, electrocardiogram (ECG), chest X-ray, pulse oximetry, and sometimes cardiac catheterization.
How Is an AV Canal Defect Treated?
Treatment usually involves surgical repair during infancy or early childhood. Medications may also be used before surgery to help manage symptoms such as heart failure.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals support recovery after heart surgery by monitoring symptoms, assisting with medications, encouraging proper nutrition, educating caregivers, and helping families follow the child’s treatment plan.
Home Care Tip
Children with congenital heart conditions benefit from regular follow-up visits with a pediatric cardiologist to monitor heart function throughout growth and development.
Frequently Asked Questions About AV Canal Defect
Is an AV canal defect the same as a hole in the heart?
It includes openings between the heart’s chambers along with abnormalities of the heart valves, making it more complex than many other congenital heart defects.
Can an AV canal defect be repaired?
Yes. Surgical repair is highly successful in many children, allowing them to live active and healthy lives with ongoing cardiac follow-up.
Can home care help after heart surgery?
Yes. Home care professionals support recovery, monitor for complications, provide education, and assist families with postoperative care at home.
When to Seek Medical Care
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice worsening breathing difficulties, poor feeding, blue lips or skin, fever after surgery, or signs of infection around a surgical incision.