Exercises in anatomy: holes between the ventricles

Area of Science:

• Cardiac Anatomy
• Congenital Heart Disease
• Surgical Anatomy

Background:

• Ventricular septal defects (VSDs) represent the most frequent congenital cardiac malformations.
• Current classification systems lack consensus, hindering effective surgical planning.
• Understanding the detailed anatomy of the ventricular septum is crucial for VSD categorization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a comprehensive classification for ventricular septal defects.
• To analyze the normal and malformed cardiac anatomy relevant to VSDs.
• To correlate anatomical features with surgical considerations.

Main Methods:

• Detailed analysis of normal cardiac anatomy, focusing on the ventricular septum and its components.
• Examination of malformed hearts to identify VSD locations and characteristics.
• Illustration of phenotypic features and septal malalignment in VSDs.

Main Results:

• The ventricular septum is primarily muscular, with a small membranous portion.
• VSDs can occur centrally, inlet, outlet, or within the apical septum.
• Phenotypic features and septal malalignment provide critical surgical information, especially regarding the conduction axis.

Conclusions:

• A classification integrating geographical location, phenotypic features, and septal malalignment is essential for surgical guidance.
• This approach enhances understanding of VSDs and aids in preoperative planning.
• Accurate anatomical description is key to improving outcomes for congenital cardiac malformations.