[Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography: a better presentation of intra-atrial structures]

In seven patients with suspected or detected abnormal intra-atrial structures on 2-dimensional echocardiography, transoesophageal echocardiography was diagnostic of left atrial myxoma in two, left atrial thrombus in two, cor triatriatum in two and right atrial membrane in one. The transoesophageal technique extends diagnostic possibilities. The accurate demonstration of atrial abnormalities in such cases by the transoesophageal technique obviates the need of invasive pre-operative angiographic and haemodynamic procedures.