New applications of two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in cardiac surgery

Abstract

This article describes new applications of two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D-TEE), including (1) detection of pleural fluid (PF) and atelectasis (AT), and (2) evaluation of various cannulation techniques. The left and right pleural spaces were visualized by rotating the probe counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, from the four-chamber view. PF was depicted as a crescent-shaped echo-free space, enclosed by the lung and posterior chest wall on both sides. AT was often accompanied by PF and was depicted as a less echogenic area in the lung parenchyma. During removal of PF, the echo-free space gradually decreased in size to the point of disappearing completely, while the lung parenchyma expanded and became more echogenic. TEE was advantageous in detecting PF and AT located in the most dorsal parts of the pleural space and lung parenchyma. The aorta acted as an acoustic window on the left side. TEE was found useful in evaluating the cannulae position of the intraaortic balloon pump (IABP) and ventricular assist device (VAD), and femoral cannulae for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). During use of the IABP, the chamber and shaft were visualized clearly and both malposition of the catheter tip and malfunction of the balloon were easily detected. For VAD, TEE readily showed the collapse of the ventricular cavity due to excessive drainage of blood from the left ventricle, as well as the favorable result of immediate reduction of flow rate. For femorofemoral extracorporeal bypass, TEE detected improper position of the venous cannula. These new applications of TEE can be performed with minimal manipulation of the probe, enabling early detection of the problems and initiating timely and appropriate therapy. It is believed that the postoperative complications may be minimized.