Ventricular Septation

Also known as: ventricular septation for double-inlet left ventricle, ventricular septation for double-inlet right ventricle

What is ventricular septation?

Ventricular septation refers to a series of surgical procedures that can repair the heart for some children with congenital heart defects, such as double-inlet left ventricle or double-inlet right ventricle. These conditions cause the chambers of the heart to not be formed properly, which in turn causes problems with blood flow through the heart and body. A ventricular septation is a series of procedures that separates the ventricles from one another to help the heart function properly.

What happens during the procedure?

Ventricular septation typically involves a series of surgeries to first begin separating the ventricles from one another and then repairing them so that blood flows properly through them. The procedures are all surgeries that are performed under general anesthesia and require a multi-day stay in the hospital.

Is any special preparation needed?

Your child will likely need to undergo several diagnostic tests to determine if they are a candidate for ventricular septation and, if so, which procedure or procedures are appropriate for them. Your doctors may have other guidance depending on the specific nature of the procedure or procedures. For example, you may need to avoid food and medication for a period of time before the procedures.

What are the risk factors?

A ventricular septation does have risks and may involve multiple surgeries, so it’s important to discuss these risks and potential outcomes with your doctors. Despite the risks, in many cases it’s the best treatment option available for the infant with a congenital heart defect, and many children who have undergone the procedures go on to lead healthy, productive lives.

Reviewed by: David Kalfa, MD

This page was last updated on: June 26, 2026 03:22 PM