MDCT of interatrial septum

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Anatomy

Background:

• The interatrial septum (IAS) is crucial for cardiac function.
• Accurate assessment of the IAS is vital for diagnosing various cardiac conditions.
• Multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT) offers high-resolution imaging of cardiac structures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive pictorial review of the interatrial septum (IAS).
• To describe the normal anatomy, anatomical variants, and pathological abnormalities of the IAS.
• To illustrate congenital abnormalities, tumors, and tumoral-like processes affecting the IAS.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing ECG-gated cardiac multidetector row computed tomography (MDCT).
• Detailed analysis of anatomical structures within the interatrial septum.
• Radiological image acquisition and interpretation for diagnostic purposes.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of normal interatrial septum (IAS) anatomy.
• Illustration of common IAS variants, such as patent foramen ovale.
• Depiction of IAS abnormalities including atrial septal defects, tumors, and tumoral-like lesions.

Conclusions:

• ECG-gated cardiac MDCT is a precise tool for evaluating the interatrial septum (IAS).
• This review serves as a visual guide to the spectrum of IAS findings.
• Understanding IAS anatomy and pathology is essential for accurate cardiac diagnosis.