The use of elevated intrabronchial pressure for the demonstration of anomalous pulmonary veins and atrial defects.

A technique for the examination of atrial septal defects of primum, secundum and sinus-venosus type of defect and the presence of abnormally emptying veins is discussed. The technique of flow reversal by means of controlled increase of the intrabronchial pressure previously introduced by one of the authors is followed up in a series of 18 cases with sinus-venosus defect and abnormal venous drainage. This follow-up study has clearly demonstrated the value of this technique, which is accordingly recommended in cases in which these anomalies are suspected.