MULTIPLANE TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF DEFECTS OFTHE ATROVENTRICULAR SEPTUM - THE CRUX OF THE MATTER

The availability of multiplane transesophageal probes has dramatically facilitated visualization of complex cardiac anatomy, with full dynam ic tracking of anatomic contiguity. This report describes the unique a pplicability of multiplane transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for visualization and assessment of a spectrum of congenital cardiac defec ts involving the cardiac crux, including the atrioventricular septum, inlet muscular septum, and the atrioventricular valves. With further e volution and progressive miniaturization of these probes, the use of t his echocardiographic modality will hopefully encroach into the young infant age range, permitting enhanced preoperative and perioperative d epiction of complex congenital cardiac anatomy.