Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 5, 2026
07:41
Echocardiographic Evaluation of Atrial Communications before Transcatheter Closure
Published on: February 8, 2022
3.6K
Type A aortic dissection during transoesophageal echocardiography: a case report
Chung-Yen Lee1, Kuang-Chien Chiang1, Wen-Jeng Lee2
1School of Medicine, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan.
European Heart Journal. Case Reports
|September 2, 2024
Summary
Type A aortic dissection (TAAD) can rarely occur or worsen during transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). This case highlights the need for vigilance during TEE in high-risk patients with aortic disease.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Vascular Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a crucial diagnostic tool in cardiology.
- Type A aortic dissection (TAAD) is a rare but life-threatening condition affecting the aorta.
- The occurrence of TAAD during TEE has been infrequently reported.
Observation:
- An 81-year-old male with abdominal aortic aneurysm presented with acute decompensated heart failure.
- During TEE, initially showing no dissection, TAAD developed and extended from the aortic root to the infrarenal aorta.
- The patient had multiple comorbidities, including severe left ventricular dysfunction and mitral regurgitation.
Findings:
- This case documents the de novo or retrograde progression of TAAD during a TEE procedure.
- Urgent contrast CT confirmed the extensive nature of the dissection.
- The patient's high surgical risk precluded operative intervention.
Implications:
- Clinicians must maintain high vigilance for TAAD during TEE, particularly in high-risk patients.
- The potential risks of TEE in patients with known aortic dissection and renal compromise warrant careful consideration.
- This emphasizes the importance of comprehensive pre-procedural assessment in complex cardiovascular cases.
Related Concept Videos
01:15Aortic Regurgitation I: Introduction
1.6K
IntroductionAortic regurgitation is characterized by the backward flow of blood from the aorta into the left ventricle during diastole and arises from the improper closure of the aortic valve. This condition results in left ventricular volume overload and can stem from both acute and chronic etiologies, each contributing uniquely to the disease's progression and symptomatology.Acute and Chronic CausesAcute aortic regurgitation often results from events that suddenly impair the integrity of the...
1.6K
01:22Aortic Regurgitation II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
1.2K
Aortic valve regurgitation (AR) occurs when the aortic valve fails to close properly, allowing blood to flow backward from the aorta into the left ventricle. This backflow can result in two distinct clinical presentations: acute and chronic AR, each characterized by its own set of symptoms and physical findings.Acute Aortic RegurgitationAcute AR presents with a sudden onset of severe symptoms. Patients typically experience profound dyspnea (shortness of breath), chest pain, and signs of left...
1.2K
01:30Aneurysm I: Introduction
658
An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
658
01:21Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
592
Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
592