Echocardiography of atrioventricular valves in patients with univentricular heart

M-Mode echocardiography in patients with univentricular heart allows the number and relations of the AV valves to be established. The absence of a posterior septum can be documented with some certainty and in many cases a stradding AV valve suspected. In addition, reduced amplitude of diastolic closure velocity is very suggestive of valve atresia or dysplasia. This information is of practical significance if corrective surgery is planned.