Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries: clinical, echocardiographic, and radiologic characteristics

Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (MAPCAs) are rare congenital anomalies with significant clinical implications, often associated with congenital heart diseases like tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) and pulmonary atresia (PA). This study aimed to investigate the clinical, echocardiographic, and radiologic characteristics of MAPCAs in patients with congenital heart diseases admitted to our clinic between 2016 and 2023.

A retrospective analysis of 46 cases was conducted using chest computed tomography exams performed on a dual-source 128-slice CT scanner. Clinical data and radiologic characteristics were collected and analysed.

The study revealed a strong correlation between congenital heart diseases and the presence of MAPCAs, with TOF, PA, and ventricular septal defect (VSD) being the most common, and it indicated that these collaterals may exist with non-diagnosed congenital heart disease. Tricuspid regurgitation and aortic insufficiency were the predominant echocardiographic findings. Radiologically, MAPCAs primarily originated from the descending aorta (type II) in 85% of cases, and their sizes ranged from ≤ 3 mm to > 10 mm, with an average of 5 mm.

This study provides comprehensive insights into the clinical and radiologic aspects of MAPCAs in patients with congenital heart diseases. The findings emphasise the importance of early detection and intervention for better managing of these complex conditions and the need for further research.