Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 13, 2026

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection
06:26

Novel and Innovative Hybrid Technique for Type A Aortic Dissection

Published on: March 28, 2025

Aortic arch branches are no longer a blind zone for transesophageal echocardiography: a new eye for aortic surgeons

K Orihashi1, Y Matsuura, T Sueda

  • 1First Department of Surgery, Hiroshima University School of Medicine, Hiroshima, Japan. kaori@mcai.med.hiroshima-u.ac.jp

The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery
|August 30, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Transesophageal echocardiography can now visualize aortic arch branch arteries, previously a blind zone. This new technique aids diagnosis and decision-making during aortic surgery and critical care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiovascular Imaging
  • Surgical Echocardiography

Background:

  • Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has limitations in visualizing aortic arch branch arteries.
  • Limited visualization restricts crucial blood flow information for aortic surgeries and critical care.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To establish and evaluate a novel TEE technique for visualizing aortic arch branch arteries.
  • To overcome the limitations of conventional TEE in assessing these vessels.

Main Methods:

  • A new TEE technique was applied to 25 patients undergoing aortic operations.
  • Lateral probe tip flexion was employed to overcome tracheal interference.
  • Visualization was performed when cerebral malperfusion was suspected.

Main Results:

  • High visualization rates were achieved for left subclavian (96%), common carotid (92-96%), right subclavian (100%), and vertebral arteries (88-92%).
  • The technique identified dissection extension and detected vertebral artery steal flow.
  • Cannula placement for selective cerebral perfusion was monitored.

Conclusions:

  • Aortic arch branch arteries are no longer a blind zone for TEE.
  • The developed TEE technique provides valuable diagnostic and monitoring information for aortic surgery and critical care.
  • This enhanced visualization is clinically significant and recommended.
Abstract

Related Concept Videos

The Arch of Aorta01:10

The Arch of Aorta

The coronary arteries, originating from the ascending aorta, bifurcate from two sinuses located within the ascending aorta. Positioned just above the aortic semilunar valve, these sinuses house essential aortic baroreceptors and chemoreceptors, crucial for maintaining cardiac function. The left coronary artery and the right coronary artery branch off from the left posterior and anterior aortic sinuses, respectively.
Encircling the heart, the coronary arteries form a ring-like structure before...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Thoracic Aorta01:15

Thoracic Aorta

The thoracic section of the aorta begins at the T5 vertebra and extends to the T12 level at the diaphragm, initially progressing through the mediastinum to the left of the spinal column. Throughout its course in the thoracic segment, the thoracic aorta emits various offshoots known collectively as visceral and parietal branches. The branches that predominantly supply blood to visceral organs are termed visceral branches and include bronchial, pericardial, esophageal, and mediastinal arteries,...
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests01:22

Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests

Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction01:15

Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction

IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...