What is a common consequence of untreated Endocardial Cushion Defect?

Untreated Endocardial Cushion Defect (ECD), also known as an atrioventricular septal defect, can lead to significant hemodynamic challenges in a newborn. One of the most common consequences of this congenital heart defect is heart failure. In a normal heart, the atrioventricular septum effectively separates the left and right sides, directing blood flow appropriately. However, with ECD, there is a failure to form this separation, resulting in shunting of blood between the chambers and volume overload.

As a consequence of this structural anomaly, the heart is forced to work harder to manage the increased blood flow, leading to an elevated workload. This increased strain can ultimately impair cardiac function. Symptoms of heart failure in infants with ECD may include tachypnea, poor feeding, and lethargy. Eventually, if left untreated, the sustained volume overload can result in congestive heart failure, where the heart is unable to pump effectively to meet the body's needs.

In summary, the connection between untreated Endocardial Cushion Defect and heart failure arises primarily from the volume overload and increased workload on the heart due to the abnormal shunting of blood. This understanding highlights the importance of early detection and management of congenital heart defects to prevent such serious