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Atrioventricular Septal Defect: What Is in a Name?
1MD FRCP FRCPCH, Royal Brompton Hospital, London SW3 6NP, UK.
Journal of Cardiovascular Development and Disease
|March 6, 2021
Summary
Robert Anderson and Anton Becker redefined congenital cardiac malformations, introducing the term Atrioventricular Septal Defect (AVSD). Their work clarified complex anomalies previously misclassified, improving diagnosis and understanding in pediatric cardiology.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pediatric Cardiology
- Congenital Heart Disease
Background:
- Historically, Atrioventricular Septal Defects (AVSD) were variably termed and classified.
- Previous understanding incorrectly linked ostium primum defects and mitral valve clefts as variants of atrioventricular canal malformations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the seminal contributions of Robert Anderson and Anton Becker to the understanding and classification of Atrioventricular Septal Defects (AVSD).
- To highlight the redefinition of AVSD and its impact on pediatric cardiology and adult congenital heart disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of historical literature and editorial publications, particularly the 1982 "What's in a name?" by Anderson and Becker.
- Analysis of the evolution of diagnostic criteria and classification of congenital cardiac malformations.
Main Results:
- Anderson and Becker proposed the generic name 'Atrioventricular Septal Defect' (AVSD) to accurately describe hearts with a common atrioventricular junction.
- Their work distinguished AVSD from previously related anomalies, establishing clearer diagnostic criteria.
Conclusions:
- The reclassification of Atrioventricular Septal Defects (AVSD) by Anderson and Becker has been pivotal in advancing the field.
- Accurate diagnosis and clear communication, emphasized by their work, remain crucial for managing complex congenital heart conditions.
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