Systemic and pulmonary venous anomalies in children with congenital heart disease on multidetector computed tomography: A descriptive study

Abstract

Introduction: The identification of pulmonary and systemic venous abnormalities in patients with complex congenital heart diseases is crucial for appropriate management. Multidetector CT enables detailed evaluation of these anomalies, outlining their anatomical course and drainage patterns. To our knowledge, this is the first descriptive study from the Indian sub-continent to evaluate such rare anomalies. This study aimed to evaluate the role of Multidetector computed tomography in evaluating venous anomalies associated with congenital heart disease.

Methods: A single-center retrospective descriptive study was conducted from January 2013 to August 2022 in a tertiary care hospital, including patients aged 18 years and below who were referred for evaluation for congenital heart disease. Multidetector CT scans were reviewed by three radiologists independently.

Results: Among 99 patients, 78 had systemic venous anomalies and 37 had pulmonary venous anomalies, with nine showing both. Persistent left superior vena cava was the most common systemic venous anomaly (n=62, 79.4%). Partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection was the most common pulmonary venous anomaly (n=18,48.6%).

Conclusion: Multidetector CT is a non-invasive, high-resolution imaging modality that provides detailed evaluation of pulmonary, systemic, and associated cardiac anomalies. Its multiplanar capabilities enable accurate identification of complex venous abnormalities, facilitating better diagnosis and management.