Epidemiology

Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) are among the most common congenital heart defects in infants and children, and an isolated VSD is seen in approximately 3 infants per 1000 live births.[7]​ Most of these close spontaneously in childhood.[8][9][10][11]​​​​​​​​ VSD may accompany other congenital defects.

Type 4 (muscular) defects are the most common VSDs, along with type 2 (peri-membranous).[12][13]​​

Down's syndrome is commonly associated with atrioventricular septal defects, which are seen in between one third and one half of all patients.[14][15]​​​ These may be atrial septal, ventricular septal, or both.[16]​ Overall, atrioventricular septal defects are thought to be present in about 0.29 to 0.54 per 1000 live births.[7]​​[13][17]​​

Acquired VSDs, due to myocardial infarction or trauma, are rare.

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