Afterload reduction in the management of postinfarction ventricular septal defect.

The primary goal in the medical management of ventricular septal defect complicating myocardial infarction is to support cardiac function and control symptoms, if possible, for a period of 4 to 6 weeks. If the patient survives this period, surgical correction of the defect is technically easier and safer. In many cases, However, cardiac function is severly compromised, intractable biventricular failure develops,early operation is necessary and the likelihood of successful repair is diminished.