Which heart anomaly is the most commonly observed congenital defect?

The most commonly observed congenital heart defect is a ventricular septal defect (VSD). A VSD is characterized by an opening in the ventricular septum, which separates the left and right ventricles of the heart. This defect allows blood to flow from the left ventricle (which typically has higher pressure) to the right ventricle, leading to increased blood flow to the lungs and potential complications such as pulmonary hypertension if left untreated.

Ventricular septal defects are particularly common in the pediatric population and can range in size and severity. Many VSDs may close spontaneously within the first few years of life, but larger defects often require surgical intervention to prevent long-term complications. The prevalence of VSD, alongside the impact that it can have if not managed properly, solidifies its status as the most frequently encountered congenital heart anomaly in clinical practice.