Hemodynamics in children with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return and atrial septal defect using 4D-flow MRI.

4D flow MRI is used to assess flow dynamics in the pulmonary veins and left atrium of 10 patients (mean age 3.8 years) with partial anomalous pulmonary venous return and atrial septal defect compared with 13 age matched normal subjects. Anomalous veins do not have a higher proportion of total return flow compared to normal subjects. Flow across the atrial septal defect results in a higher proportion of flow during systole compared to normal subjects and results in lower atrial pressure and thus reduced left ventricle filling velocities. Atrial kick dynamics are not different compared with normal subjects.