[A surgically treated case of partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection to the right atrium, diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging].

We report a successful surgical repair of a 33-year-old male with partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection (PAPVC) to the right atrium and pulmonary valve stenosis. This case was diagnosed using Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). The findings of MRI clearly showed an abnormal development of the atrial septum far to the left, and the right lower pulmonary vein connected to the right atrium. An embryologic explanation of PAPVC can be provided in many cases by persistent communication between pulmonary veins and systemic veins. However, the MRI findings of this case support the suggestion of Neill that an abnormal development of the atrial septum far to the left provides an embryologic explanation for PAPVC to the right atrium. Preoperative MRI study of PAPVC to the right atrium prove to be of great value in preventing accidental over-cutting of the posterior atrial wall during surgical correction.