[Atrioventricular connection anomalies associated with Fallot's tetralogy: bidimensional echocardiographic study]

From January 1979 to December 1981, 62 patients with Tetralogy of Fallot were studied by two-dimensional echocardiography (2-D Echo). In 10 cases various types of atrioventricular connection anomalies were found: type C atrioventricular canal in 8 cases, straddling tricuspid valve in 1 case, straddling and overriding tricuspid valve in 1 case. These associated anomalies usually are not suspected by means of clinical, electrocardiographic and radiological findings, whereas 2-D Echo appears to have a unique diagnostic value. Apical and subcostal four chamber views were the most helpful to detect the anomalies of the atrioventricular junction; in all cases with complete atrioventricular canal, the ostium primum atrial septal defect, the common atrioventricular valve and the inlet septal defect were clearly seen. In one case an overriding tricuspid valve was clearly demonstrated; in this and in another patient the straddling of the tricuspid valve could be only suspected, whereas its confirmation was obtained subsequently by angiography and surgery. A through 2-D echo evaluation of these anomalies is useful to select the most appropriate views for angiographic confirmation and to ensure optimal surgical planning.