Transesophageal Echocardiography in the Evaluation of Aortic Trauma

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is superior to other imaging techniques for the diagnosis of aortic trauma. It can accurately, rapidly, and safely diagnose life-threatening conditions such as aortic rupture, pseudoaneurysm, traumatic aortic dissection, and intramural hematoma. TEE is useful for the diagnosis and prevention of iatrogenic aortic trauma induced by cardiovascular surgery, intraaortic procedures, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. (ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY, Volume 13, March 1996)