Two-dimensional and pulsed Doppler echocardiography in the postoperative evaluation of total anomalous pulmonary venous connection

Jeffrey F. Smallhorn, Patricia Burroughs, G. Wilson, John Coles, David L. Gilday, Robert M. Freedom
Hospital for Sick Children.
Canada

Circulation
Circulation 1987; 76: 298-305
DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.76.2.298

Abstract
The role of combined two-dimensional and pulsed Doppler echocardiography in the postoperative assessment of patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection was evaluated. Twenty-two cases with a median age of 9.5 weeks at the initial examination were evaluated. Serial ultrasound examinations were performed throughout the study period. The ultrasound results were compared with chest radiographs obtained during the same period. Of the 22 patients, 16 had normal pulmonary venous flow profiles characterized by low-velocity laminar flow. Of this group 12 had persistent radiographic postoperative pulmonary edema that cleared in all by 4 months. Six patients with pulmonary venous obstruction were identified, the diagnosis being confirmed at catheterization or autopsy. The venous flow pattern in this group was uniformly high velocity and turbulent. It was possible to localize the site of obstruction in each case. Although pulmonary edema was present in each patient, the chest radiograph did not provide reliable information as to the exact site of obstruction. Combined two-dimensional and Doppler echocardiography is a useful adjunct in the postoperative evaluation of patients with total anomalous pulmonary venous connection.

Category
Segmental Pulmonary Venous Disease. Without a Focus on Pulmonary Hypertension
Diagnostic Testing for Pulmonary Vascular Disease. Non-invasive Testing

Age Focus: Pediatric Pulmonary Vascular Disease

Fresh or Filed Publication: Filed (PHiled). Greater than 1-2 years since publication

Article Access
Free PDF File or Full Text Article Available Through PubMed or DOI: Yes

Scroll to Top