New Insights into Sinus Venosus Defects from Cross-Sectional Imaging

Sinus venosus defects include two varieties, superior and inferior sinus defects. The defect is characterized by abnormal communication between closely related venoatrial structures: 1) the normally positioned vena cava-right atrium complex 2) right pulmonary vein-left that displaced leftward, forward upward. Inferior primarily involve atrial junction while can also be affected. Because of rarity wide variation defects, morphological characterization inconsistent among investigators often inaccurate. Modern imaging technologies with high spatial temporal resolutions have allowed accurate detailed assessment pathological anatomy in larger numbers cases. In this pictorial essay, we revisit established controversial features venous using two-dimensional (2D) three-dimensional (3D) images obtained magnetic resonance (MR) or computed tomography (CT) brief discussion on treatment strategies.