Epicardial echocardiography: diagnostic utility for evaluating aortic valve disease during coronary surgery

J Clin Anesth. 2003 Jun;15(4):271-4. doi: 10.1016/s0952-8180(03)00024-2.

Abstract

Intraoperative epicardial echocardiography is commonly used to evaluate the ascending aorta for atheromatous disease before cannulation and cross clamping. In addition, it may serve as a cardiac imaging technique in patients where placement of a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe is contraindicated, probe advancement is difficult, or a TEE probe is not available. We report a patient who was taken to the OR for coronary artery bypass grafting. Intraoperative TEE was planned to evaluate aortic valve function. However, attempts to place a TEE probe were abandoned due to high resistance on probe insertion. Epicardial echocardiography revealed previously undiagnosed aortic valve disease resulting in replacement of this valve.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aortic Valve / diagnostic imaging*
  • Coronary Artery Bypass*
  • Echocardiography, Doppler* / methods
  • Echocardiography, Transesophageal / adverse effects
  • Female
  • Heart Valve Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Heart Valve Diseases / surgery
  • Humans
  • Intraoperative Complications
  • Predictive Value of Tests