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Transesophageal echocardiogram causing denture dislodgement with upper airway partial obstruction
1Springfield Cardiology, 1174 East Home Road, Springfield, OH 45503, USA. naj_ars@yahoo.com
A patient experienced airway obstruction during a transesophageal echocardiogram due to dislodged partial dentures. This highlights the critical need for pre-procedure oral checks for dental appliances.
Area of Science:
- Medical procedures
- Patient safety
- Diagnostic imaging
Background:
- Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an invasive cardiac imaging technique.
- Patient history is crucial for identifying potential procedural risks.
- Dental prosthetics can pose risks during certain medical procedures.
Observation:
- A patient undergoing TEE denied having dentures.
- Following the TEE procedure, the patient developed partial airway obstruction.
- The obstruction was caused by dislodged partial dentures.
Findings:
- A previously undisclosed partial denture dislodged during TEE.
- Dislodged dentures can cause partial airway obstruction.
- Inadequate pre-procedure screening for dental appliances can lead to complications.
Implications:
- TEE procedures require thorough pre-procedural screening for all dental appliances.
- Healthcare providers must visually inspect patients' mouths for hidden dental prosthetics.
- Enhanced patient safety protocols are needed to prevent airway complications during TEE.
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