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Noninvasive Determination of Vortex Formation Time Using Transesophageal Echocardiography During Cardiac Surgery
04:48

Noninvasive Determination of Vortex Formation Time Using Transesophageal Echocardiography During Cardiac Surgery

Published on: November 28, 2018

Transesophageal echocardiography: not an innocuous procedure

W T Brinkman1, J S Shanewise, S D Clements

  • 1Joseph B. Whitehead Department of Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

The Annals of Thoracic Surgery
|November 28, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Transesophageal echocardiography can cause intrathoracic esophageal perforations. Early suspicion and surgical intervention are crucial for patient survival in these rare cases.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Gastroenterology
  • Thoracic Surgery

Background:

  • Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a valuable diagnostic tool.
  • Esophageal perforation is a rare but serious complication of TEE.
  • Timely diagnosis and management are critical for favorable outcomes.

Observation:

  • Three patients developed intrathoracic esophageal perforations following TEE procedures over a two-year period.
  • Delayed diagnosis occurred in these cases due to a lack of clinical suspicion.
  • All three patients underwent surgical management for their perforations.

Findings:

  • Intrathoracic esophageal perforation is a potential risk associated with transesophageal echocardiography.
  • Failure to suspect this complication can lead to significant diagnostic delays.
  • Prompt surgical intervention is associated with successful patient survival.

Implications:

  • Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for esophageal perforation after TEE.
  • Improved awareness and diagnostic protocols for TEE-related esophageal injuries are warranted.
  • Surgical management offers a viable treatment option for intrathoracic esophageal perforations following TEE.

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