Ventricular septal defect in a 7-year-old gelding.

The article outlines the diagnosis and impact of a congenital heart defect called Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) on a 7-year old gelding.

Understanding Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD)

• Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is a congenital heart defect often diagnosed at birth. It manifests as an opening, or patency, in the ventricular septum — the wall separating the heart’s two lower chambers, or ventricles.
• The situation results in the direct flow of blood from the left ventricle (pumping oxygen-rich blood) to the right ventricle (pumping oxygen-poor blood), bypassing pulmonary circulation where the blood should get oxygenated.
• This intermixing of oxygen-rich and oxygen-poor blood leads to the body receiving inadequate oxygen, causing cyanosis, a condition marked by bluish discoloration of the skin.

Clinical Symptoms of VSD

• The clinical sign indicating a Ventricular Septal Defect (VSD) is most notably a systolic murmur. A health care professional may hear an abnormal whooshing sound when listening to the heart with a stethoscope.
• There can also be a palpable thrill, where a purring-like vibration can be felt while touching both sides of the horse’s chest.
• The horse may display shortness of breath, medically referred to as dyspnoea, and lack a tolerance for exercise, showing signs of fatigue or discomfort during physical activities.

Implication on the Gelding’s Health

• VSD poses a serious health risk to the gelding, primarily through the consequent oxygen deficiency. Beyond affecting bodily functions broadly, the poor oxygenation can negatively impact the animal’s vital organs and overall quality of life.
• The horse’s capacity for exercise is also significantly reduced, impeding its potential for activities and performance.
• The heart overexertion could also lead to other complications, including heart enlargement or even heart failure.