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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

Transoesophageal echocardiography and cardioversion: feasibility of a combined approach in clinical practice

Liza Thomas1, Michael Veltman, Kate Levett

  • 1Department of Cardiology, Westmead Hospital, Darcy Road, Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia. lizat@westgate.wh.usyd.edu.au

Heart, Lung & Circulation
|February 5, 2008
PubMed

Insights

Combining transesophageal echo (TOE) and cardioversion into a single procedure for atrial fibrillation is safe and effective. This approach reduces hospital stay and healthcare costs for patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Medical Procedures

Background:

  • Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia requiring treatment.
  • External cardioversion is a standard treatment, often preceded by transesophageal echo (TOE).
  • These procedures are typically performed separately.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the safety and feasibility of performing TOE and cardioversion as a combined procedure.
  • To assess the impact on patient hospital stay and procedural costs.

Main Methods:

  • 173 patients were referred for a combined TOE and cardioversion procedure; 154 completed it.
  • Safety and duration of hospital stay were evaluated.
  • A cost analysis compared combined procedures (Group 1) with separate procedures (Group 2).

Main Results:

  • The combined procedure demonstrated a median admission to discharge time of 9 hours and mean procedure time of 36 minutes.
  • No significant technical issues arose with single sedation.
  • Group 1 showed significantly lower total admission time, TOE to discharge time, and procedural costs compared to Group 2.

Conclusions:

  • Combined TOE and cardioversion is a safe and effective outpatient procedure.
  • It allows for a single sedation, shortens hospital stays, and reduces healthcare expenses.
Abstract

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