Echocardiography in the diagnosis of Lutembacher syndrome.

In two patients with Lutembacher syndrome cardiac catheterization demonstrated a large atrial septal defect but no diastolic gradient across the mitral valve. Echocardiography was compatible with right ventricular volume overload and mitral stenosis. Surgical exploration of the mitral valve at the time of atrial septal defect correction is warranted when the echocardiogram is suggestive of mitral stenosis.