Pattern of pulmonary venous flow in patients with atrial septal defect

Abstract EN

Objective : the pulmonary venous flow pattern in patients with ASD has received little attention. We sought to study this pattern and attempt to shed light on its pathophysiology Patients and methods : the left upper pulmonary vein was interrogated by pulse wave Doppler during trans-esophageal echocardiography in 32 consecutive patients with secundum ASD or sinus venosus ASD in sinus rhythm ; we observed several parameters including the waveform pattern, the maximal amplitude of the S and D waves, and the magnitude of the atrial reversal wave (a wave). Results : in all 32 patients, a unique waveform pattern was noted, characterized by a single continuous ante grade pattern spanning systole and diastole without interruption, ending at the onset of atrial contraction.

The peak flow velocity was exaggerated, ranging from 40.5 to 108 cm / sec (mean ± SD 74.11 ± 15.96).

The atrial reversal wave had a peak velocity of _2.4-_5.0 (mean ± SD _3.6 ± 2.75) which is lower than normal. Conclusion : atrial septal defect causes an altered pattern of blood flow in the pulmonary veins, characterized by a single waveform pattern with increased velocity of flow and could aid in the diagnosis of the condition.