[Dynamics of myocardial function of the left and right ventricles based on electrocardiographic data after the surgical closure of interventricular septal defects]

A retrospective study of postoperative electrocardiographic and pulmonary hemodynamic changes in 145 patients operated on for isolated interventricular heart defects demonstrated that the ECG-documented reverse development of the hypertrophic process in the right and left ventricles was not always in evidence. Positive ECG developments were mostly observed within the first 2 years. Residual signs of the hypertrophic process persisted at further follow-up. Pathologic changes in the right ventricle are more flexible and regress rapidly following the operation. Indications for surgery should be established at least from the time of the onset of the first electrocardiographic signs of developing cardiac compensation.