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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 19 August 2008
Defects of the atrioventricular septum impose changes in the septal architecture, atrioventricular valves, and conduction system that must be well understood for optimal repair. The atrioventricular node and bundles are shifted to more posterior and inferior positions that can be anticipated by the surgeon so as to maintain the integrity of atrioventricular conduction. The atrioventricular valve is a five leaflet structure that possesses a common orifice or separate orifices depending on characteristics of the superior and inferior bridging leaflets. These features are demonstrated by intraoperative photographs viewed from the surgeon's position.