Double outlet ventricles: review of anatomic and imaging characteristics

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Cardiology

Background:

• Double outlet ventricles with concordant atrioventricular connections represent 1-3% of congenital heart disease cases.
• This heterogeneous group includes double outlet right ventricle (DORV), double outlet left ventricle (DOLV), and double outlet both ventricles (DOBV).
• These conditions present diverse pathophysiologies necessitating individualized surgical strategies based on intricate cardiovascular anatomy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review double outlet ventricles (DORV, DOLV, DOBV) from morphological and clinical imaging viewpoints.
• To emphasize the importance of precise anatomical understanding for surgical planning.
• To propose multimodality imaging as the optimal approach for characterizing these complex congenital heart defects.

Main Methods:

• Review of morphological and clinical imaging perspectives of double outlet ventricles.
• Analysis of intracardiac morphological features using various imaging modalities.
• Comparative assessment of temporal, spatial, and contrast resolutions of different imaging techniques.

Main Results:

• Multimodality imaging offers optimal characterization of intracardiac morphological features in double outlet hearts.
• Different imaging modalities provide varying resolutions crucial for detailed anatomical assessment.
• Accurate diagnosis through comprehensive imaging aids in optimizing treatment strategies.

Conclusions:

• Multimodality imaging is essential for the precise diagnosis of double outlet ventricles.
• A thorough understanding of complex cardiovascular anatomy is critical for effective surgical intervention.
• This imaging approach supports individualized treatment planning for patients with these rare congenital heart malformations.