Three-dimensional echocardiography of the atrial septum

This article details the important contribution of three-dimensional echoca rdiography for catheterization device closure of secundum atrial septal def ects. Aspects presented include three-dimensional echocardiographic applica tion in preselection of patients and in selection of the type and size of t he atrial septal occluder devices. Unique three-dimensional echocardiograph ic imaging planes are shown that depict the size and shape of the defect, t he important rim tissue surrounding the defect, and the images that demonst rate successful device placement. Details of the acquisition phase, digital reformatting, and the eventual rendering of standard three-dimensional ech ocardiographic imaging planes of the atrial septum are shown. Three-dimensi onal echocardiography not only provides important additional information, b ut also enhances understanding of standard two-dimensional studies.