Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in diagnosis of intermediate atrioventricular septal defect in the adult: case report and literature review

BACKGROUND: Intermediate type atrioventricular septal defect is less frequent than complete or partial atrioventricular septal defect, and is rarely encountered in the elderly and the utility of three dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis has not been reported to date. CASE PRESENTATION: In this case report, we described a rare case of an intermediate atrioventricular septal defect in an adult patient and we showed the valuable utility of real time 3D transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnosis and future surgical planning. The patient was referred to a tertiary center for an elective surgical repair. Finally, we provided a detailed review of the literature concerning the intermediate type of atrioventricular septal defect. CONCLUSION: Although 2D transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography enables diagnosis of the intermediate type atrioventricular septal defect, precise assessment of anatomy of atrioventricular septal defects and common atrioventricular valve was enabled only by real time 3D echocardiography.