Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiographic Evidence of SVC Compression by a Bronchogenic Cyst

Abstract

BRONCHOGENIC CYSTS ARE UNCOMMON congenital lesions located within the mediastinum. These lesions usually are asymptomatic and rarely require surgical intervention. The authors present a unique case demonstrating intraoperative transesophageal echocardiographic evidence of superior vena cava (SVC) compression by a bronchogenic cyst without any preoperative clinical or sonographic evidence of vascular compromise. These findings suggest that transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) potentially can be a useful modality in monitoring mediastinal masses to manage patients and guide surgical excision during the intraoperative course.