Should We Always Perform TEE Before Direct Current Cardioversion?

Abstract

Spontaneous or intended conversion of atrial fibrillation (AF) to sinus rhythm is associated with a short-term increase from baseline risk of clinical thromboembolism. Guidelines suggest performing cardioversion without prior execution of trans esophageal echo (TEE) if the patient has completed a month of anticoagulation with warfarin (in the therapeutic international normalized ratio range) or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs).