Membranous VSDs are the most common type and originate inferior to the crista supraventricularis, yet still towards the left ventricular outflow tract.

Perimembranous VSDs are also inferior to the crista supraventricularis, however extend into the muscular septum.

Supracristal VSDs occur just beneath the aortic valve at the left ventricular outflow tract. A Venturi effect can occur from the left to right shunt causing the aortic valve leaflet to prolapse into the VSD resulting in significant aortic valve regurgitation.

Muscular VSDs occur in the mid to apical interventricular septum and do not involve cardiac valves.

A Gerbode defect is technically a type of ventricular septal defect, although this results in a left ventricular to right atrial shunt.