Objective To explore a better way to diagnose interruption of aortic arch(IAA) in children.Methods The clinical features, the clinical classification and diagnostic methods of 6 cases from 1985 to 2002 were retrospectively analyzed. The diagnoses were confirmed either by cardioangiograph(CAG) or operation.Results The results showed that all the cases in this group with the complex deformity of large patent ductus arteriosus represented severe pulmonary hypertension. Interruption of aorta arch could be located according to the difference of blood pressures on their arms and legs. Two dimensional echocardiography (2DE) scan was used as a screening test,and CAG, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electric beam CT could accurately diagnose IAA.Conclusion 2DE combined with electric beam CT is comparatively a easy, safe and accurate method of diagnosing IAA. |