What is the recommended treatment for a complete atrioventricular canal defect?

The recommended treatment for a complete atrioventricular canal defect is surgical repair. This congenital heart defect involves a combination of atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect, along with a common atrioventricular valve, leading to significant hemodynamic consequences if left unaddressed. Surgical intervention is essential to correct the structural abnormalities, allowing for proper separation of the blood flow between the arteries and veins, and ultimately improving heart function and reducing the risk of complications over time.

Medication management may be used to address symptoms temporarily or manage heart failure associated with the defect but does not correct the underlying anatomical issues. Cardiac catheterization might be utilized for diagnostics or other less invasive procedures, but it is not a definitive treatment for complete atrioventricular canal defects. Regular monitoring alone would not provide the necessary intervention to prevent worsening heart function and complications associated with this condition. Thus, surgical repair is critical and is the mainstay of treatment for effective long-term outcomes.