Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 4, 2026

Use of a Percutaneous Ventricular Assist Device/Left Atrium to Femoral Artery Bypass System for Cardiogenic Shock
Published on: August 16, 2021
Aortic root spontaneous echocardiographic contrast due to haemodynamic support with a percutaneous left ventricular
Raphael See1, Brent C Anderson, David X Zhao
1Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1215 21st Avenue South, MCE South Tower, Nashville, TN 37232-8802, USA. raphael.see@vanderbilt.edu
Abstract:
Intra-procedural transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is useful in guiding device placement and monitoring for procedural complications in the interventional lab. We report a case of spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) formation in the aortic root immediately following initiation of haemodynamic support with a percutaneous left ventricular (LV) assist device for cardiogenic shock. With TEE guidance, assist device flow rates were adjusted, resulting in resolution of SEC. This case illustrates another potential use for intra-procedural TEE during LV assist device placement.
Related Concept Videos
Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Imaging Studies for Cardiovascular System II:Types of Echocardiography
Types of Echocardiography
Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
TTE is the most common type of echocardiogram which involves placing a transducer on the patient's chest, emitting sound waves to create heart images. TTE is invaluable for evaluating the heart's size, structure, and motion, making it particularly useful for diagnosing...
Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
Cardiac Catheterization III: Left Heart Catheterization
