[Complementary transthoracic and transesophageal echo-doppler in the diagnosis of rupture of the sinus of Valsalva in right heart. Apropos of 4 cases]

Abstract

Aneurysms of the sinus of Valsalva are rare and usually present with rupture communicating with the right heart cavities. Echocardiography is a powerful diagnostic tool in ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysms, especially the Color Doppler mode which shows abnormal, continuous flow as a mosaic of colour extending from the aortic root to the right heart cavities. The four case reports describe rupture of the right sinus of Valsalva aneurysm into the right atrium (2 cases) and the right ventricle (2 cases). Transesophageal echocardiography was performed in two cases and provided valuable information by confirming the site of rupture and the length of the diverticulum. The results illustrate the accuracy of Doppler echocardiographic techniques by the transthoracic and transoesophageal approaches in the diagnosis of ruptured sinus of Valsalva aneurysms.