Atrioventricular Canal Defect

Overview

An atrioventricular canal defect, also called an atrioventricular septal defect, is a congenital heart defect where there is a large hole in the center of the heart. This defect affects both the atrial and ventricular septa, allowing oxygen-rich blood and oxygen-poor blood to mix. As a result, the heart has to work harder, which can cause breathing difficulties, fatigue, and other serious complications. Atrioventricular canal defects require prompt diagnosis and specialized treatment.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of atrioventricular canal defects in newborns and infants include:

  • Blue-tinged skin (cyanosis) due to low oxygen levels
  • Rapid breathing (tachypnea)
  • Rapid heart rate (tachycardia)
  • Fatigue or lethargy
  • Poor feeding or weight gain
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  • Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet

Causes

The exact cause of atrioventricular canal defects is not known, but they likely occur during fetal development due to genetic or environmental factors. This defect is often associated with genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome, and other congenital heart defects.

Diagnosis

To diagnose atrioventricular canal defects, doctors use the following methods:

  • Physical examination to identify signs of distress or illness
  • Echocardiogram, which uses sound waves to visualize the heart and check for defects
  • Chest X-ray to examine the heart and lungs
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG) to evaluate heart rhythm
  • Cardiac catheterization to provide detailed images and assess the heart’s function

Treatment Options

Atrioventricular canal defects usually require surgery to repair the defect and restore normal blood flow. Our hospital offers the following treatments:

  • Open-heart surgery: to close the hole in the heart and repair the septal defect
  • Patch repair: where a patch is used to close the hole in the heart
  • Valve repair or replacement: in cases where the heart valves are also affected
  • Medications: to manage symptoms and prevent complications before or after surgery

Patient Success Stories

At Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for children with Atrioventricular Canal Defect. Here’s why families trust us:

“When our baby was diagnosed with an atrioventricular canal defect, we were overwhelmed. The team at Gertrude's Children's Hospital was a beacon of hope. They walked us through every step, and the surgery was a success. Today, our baby is thriving, and we couldn’t be more thankful for the incredible care we received.”

Emilymother of a baby with an atrioventricular canal defect

Atrioventricular Canal Defect in Children

With timely surgical treatment, most babies with atrioventricular canal defects can lead healthy, active lives.

Treatment usually involves surgery to repair the defect and improve blood flow, often followed by medications to manage symptoms.

Untreated atrioventricular canal defects can lead to serious complications, including heart failure, arrhythmias, and an increased risk of infection.

Contact Us

If your baby has been diagnosed with an atrioventricular canal defect or if you’re concerned about your child’s heart health, contact us immediately. Our specialized pediatric heart team is ready to provide the best care for your child.

Contact us today to learn more about our Atrioventricular Canal Defect treatment options.

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