Two-dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography Research Articles

The Key Role of 3D TEE in Assessing the Morphology of Degenerative Mitral Valve Regurgitation

Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE) and two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2D TEE) are regarded as the main imaging techniques for the assessment of degenerative mitral valve regurgitation (DMVR). However, describing the complex morphology of DMVR with 2D TTE and 2D TEE remains at the very least challenging. Three-dimensional (3D) TEE is an ideal technique for illustrating the extremely variable morphology of DMVR, providing images of unparalleled quality in terms of anatomical detail. In this review, we describe the key role of 3D TEE in various morphological scenarios that reflect everyday experiences in an echocardiographic laboratory. We also discuss the growing role of 3D TEE in mitral valve (MV) transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) and new modalities such as photorealistic and transparent displays, surface rendering parametric color maps, new algorithms for MVR quantification, and the potential role of new mini-TEE probes in adult patients with DMVR.

Perioperative Assessment and Clinical Outcomes of Percutaneous Atrial Septal Defect Closure with Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography.

To close the atrial septal defect (ASD) with the transcatheter method, correctly defining the defect and selecting the appropriate closure device size are the most critical steps for the procedure's success. Although ASD can be successfully closed under the guidance of three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and two-dimensional (2D) TEE, measurement comparisons between different types of defects are still needed. Our study was designed retrospectively. Sixty-one patients who underwent transcatheter ASD closure with 2D TEE and 3D TEE between 2020 and 2024 were included. The patients were divided into three groups according to the defect shape: circular, oval, and complex; and the measurement results, perioperative process, and clinical outcomes were compared in each group. The average age of the patients was 35.05 ± 13.87 years, and 41 (67.2%) were women. The average follow-up period of the patients was 15.3 ± 9.18 months. No statistical significance was observed in the comparison of measurements obtained with 3D TEE and 2D TEE in the circular and oval defect groups. The differences between the minimum defect diameters of complex defects measured by 2D TEE and 3D TEE (p: 0.037), IVC rims (p < 0.001), aortic rims (p: 0.012), and the differences between implanted device dimensions and the maximum defect diameters measured by both methods were compared; statistical significance was observed (p: 0.025). In circular and non-complex oval defects, it has been observed that the size of the closure device selected with 2D TEE or 3D TEE is optimal, and the procedure is practical and feasible. While the closure of complex ASDs with 3D TEE provides reliable and optimal results, using only 2D TEE in complex ASDs may lead to selecting a smaller-sized device.

Accuracy of mitral valve annulus measurements by two-and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography, compared to intraoperative measurements in patients undergoing mitral valve replacement surgery

Introduction: Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the most beneficial diagnostic modality for mitral valve (MV) diseases. However, it is not accurate enough for MV annular sizing. Recent evidence has demonstrated the superiority of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) over TTE. The present study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of two-dimensional TEE (2D-TEE) and three-dimensional TEE (3D-TEE) in preoperative measuring of MV size and specifications. Methods: This cross-sectional study evaluated patients with mitral valve replacement (MVR) surgery at Shahid Madani Heart Center of Tabriz university of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran, in 2020. Thirty-eight patients admitted for MVR surgery were enrolled in this study. Demographic, electrocardiogram (ECG), and echocardiographic studies -including TTE, 2D, and 3D TEE- were performed preoperative for each patient. The accurate size and the specifications of the studied structure were measured by a surgical gauge caliper during the surgery, which was considered the gold standard value. The correlations between obtained parameters were evaluated using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The data obtained from individual were entered into the SPSS software. Significance was set at P&lt;0.05. Results: The mean age of patients was 55.89±11.81 years, and 65.8% were male. Most patients (68.4%) had sinus rhythm. The strongest correlation with the gold standard was observed in mitral annulus circumference measured by the three-dimensional multiplanar reconstruction (3D MPR) method in all patients (r=0.758, P&lt;0.001), [(r=0.723, P&lt;0.001) for patients with sinus rhythm, and (r=0.825, P=0.001) for patients with atrial fibrillation (AF)]. The minor difference between the echocardiographic measurements and the surgical rule was related to the short axis (SA) in the 3D MPR method (3.3 mm). Conclusion: This study illustrated a high correlation between 3D-MPR TEE measured MV annulus and intra-operative measurements using a surgical gauge caliper as the gold standard.

Contemporary Valvular Mechanisms of Aortic Regurgitation in Tricuspid Aortic Valves: Importance in Repair Versus Replacement Strategy.

This study was performed to determine cusp causes of aortic regurgitation in patients with tricuspid aortic valves without significant aortic dilatation and define cusp pathologies amenable to surgical repair (aortic valve repair [AVr]) versus aortic valve replacement. We retrospectively reviewed surgical reports of consecutive adults with tricuspid aortic valves undergoing surgery for clinically significant aortic regurgitation within a prospective registry from January 2005 to September 2019. Valvular mechanisms were determined by systematic invivo intraoperative quantification methods. Of 516 patients, 287 (56%) underwent repair (AVr; mean±SD age, 59.9±12.4 years; 81% men) and 229 (44%) underwent replacement (aortic valve replacement; mean±SD age, 62.8±13.8 years [P=0.01 compared to AVr]; 67% men). A single valvular mechanism was present in 454 patients (88%), with cusp prolapse (46%), retraction (24%), and perforation (18%) being the most common. Prolapse involved the right cusp in 86% of cases and was more frequent in men (P<0.001). Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography accuracy for predicting mechanisms was 73% to 82% for the right cusp, 55% to 61% for the noncoronary cusp, and 0% for the left-coronary cusp. Cusp prolapse, younger age, and larger patient size were associated with successful AVr (all P<0.03), whereas retraction, perforation, older age, and concomitant mitral repair were associated with aortic valve replacement (all P<0.03). Right cusp prolapse is the most frequent single valvular mechanism in patients with tricuspid aortic valve aortic regurgitation, followed by cusp retraction and perforation. The accuracy of 2-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography is limited for left and noncoronary cusp mechanistic assessment. Prolapse is associated with successful AVr, whereas retraction and perforation are associated with aortic valve replacement. With systematic intraoperative quantification methods and current surgical techniques, more than half of tricuspid aortic valve aortic regurgitation cases may be successfully repaired.

Role of Imaging Modalities in the Quantitative Assessment of Atherosclerotic Plaques in the Thoracic Aorta.

Comparative analysis of the height of atherosclerotic plaques (AP) in the descending thoracic aorta (TA) according to two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), and contrast-enhanced multislice computed tomography (MSCT). The TA was examined using 2D, 3D TEE and contrast-enhanced MSCT in 34 patients (20 men and 14 women aged 68 [62; 71] years). AP heights were compared using the Bland-Altman method and the Spearman correlation analysis. This was a blinded comparative study which assessed the AP morphometry using each of the radiation modalities without knowing the results of the method being compared. 100 APs were examined in the descending TA. The mean height of all analyzed APs in the descending TA was 2.2 mm [2; 2.7] for 2D TEE, 3.1 mm [2.7; 3.55] for 3D TEE, and 3.05 mm [2.55; 3.55] for MSCT. The AP heights measured with 2D TEE was statistically significantly smaller than the heights of similar APs measured either with 3D TEE or MSCT. The mean difference (bias) was 0.88±0.34 mm between 2D and 3D TEE, and 0.83±0.41 mm between 2D TEE and MSCT. The correlation coefficients for the AP heights were r=0.87 (p&lt;0.001) between 2D and 3D TEE and r=0.86 (p&lt;0.001) between 2D TEE and MSCT. There were no differences in the height of similar APs between 3D TEE and MSCT. The three-dimensional reconstruction of AP in the TA by TEE is more accurate for quantitative assessment of AP than a two-dimensional study.

Isolated Double-Chambered Right Ventricle: A Rare Congenital Heart Disease

Double-chambered right ventricle (DCRV) is an uncommon congenital heart condition characterized by a progressive obstruction in the right ventricular outflow tract. This obstruction is caused by anomalous muscles or fibrous tissues that divide the right ventricle into two cavities: a proximal high-pressure chamber (anatomically lower) and a distal low-pressure chamber (anatomically higher). We present a case of a middle-aged man with a medical history of recurrent symptomatic dyspnea. Upon presentation, there were no signs of congestive cardiac failure. The diagnosis was confirmed using transthoracic two-dimensional (2-D) echocardiography and Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) for more precise characterization. The primary objective of this case report is to highlight the rarity of this congenital heart disease, particularly in adults.

Characterization of Tricuspid Valve Anatomy and Coaptation Gap in Subjects Receiving Tricuspid Transcatheter Edge-To-Edge Repair: Observations From the bRIGHT TriClip Study

Transcatheter edge-to-edge repair (TEER) for the treatment of tricuspid regurgitation (TR) has experienced fast adoption following commercial approval. Defining the appropriate target population for TEER therapy is important to guide patient selection. The aim of this study was to characterize tricuspid valve anatomy and coaptation gap in subjects receiving TEER for the treatment of TR in a contemporary postmarket setting. The bRIGHT study is a prospective, multicenter, single-arm, postmarket study evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the TriClip device. Procedural outcomes included implant success, acute procedural success, TR severity, major adverse events, single-leaflet device attachment, and embolization through 30 postprocedure days. Tricuspid valve characteristics, including morphology, annulus size, and leaflet mobility, were assessed via two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography from the screening visit by an independent echo core lab to characterize subject variability. Coaptation gap measurements were taken in both the transgastric short-axis (TG SAX) and RV inflow/outflow views. The independent echo core lab performed a detailed assessment of the tricuspid valve on 135 consecutive subjects with available TG SAX views from 24 sites. Tricuspid valve morphologies included 2 to 5 leaflets, with a non-trileaflet valve in 28% of subjects and ≥4 leaflets in 21% of subjects. The etiology of TR was functional in 91% (96/105), mixed in 7% (7/105), and lead induced in 2% (2/105) of subjects. Leaflet mobility was mildly restricted in 69% (78/113) and moderately restricted in 7% (8/113) of subjects. Annulus diameter averaged 4.7±0.7cm with a range of 2.5 to 6.2cm. From the TG SAX view, the coaptation gap measured 8.1±3.1 and 5.2±2.3mm in the central and mid regions of the anterior-septal coaptation line and 6.6±3.2 and 3.8±2.1mm in the central and mid regions of the septal-posterior coaptation line, respectively. From the right ventricular inflow/outflow view, the coaptation gap measured 4.7±2.4, 5.2±2.4, and 4.6±3.0mm in the anterior, mid, and posterior regions of the tricuspid valve, respectively. Thirty-day TR reduction (by number of grades) was similar among subjects with coaptation gaps of <7mm, 7 to 10mm, and >10mm. A broad range of anatomies was observed in this postmarket population. Characterization of the tricuspid valve and coaptation gap will help to better understand and better define the target patient population for tricuspid TEER therapy.

Left atrial appendage geometry and function using transesophageal three-dimensional echocardiography in atrial fibrillation: a new approach to characterize left atrial thrombogenic milieu

Abstract Background Little data is available on the evaluation of left atrial appendage (LAA) geometry and function using three-Dimensional (3D) transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Purpose We hypothesized that 3D LAA geometry evaluated using dedicated TEE software could be integrated in the evaluation of the thromboembolic milieu in patients hospitalized for atrial fibrillation (AF). Methods We prospectively studied 206 hospitalized patients with AF with two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and 3D TEE of the LAA within 24 hours of admission. 3D parameters were analysed off-line using Tomtec software (4D Cardio-View, Generic Volume, Philips) (Figure 1). Patients were divided into two groups according to the presence (n = 35) or absence (n = 171) of LAA sludge/thrombus on admission. Results Patients with LAA sludge/thrombus had more frequently a history of heart failure together with higher values of BNP, CRP and hemoglobin. These patients received less frequently angiotensin II receptor antagonist treatment on admission. Concerning the echocardiographic characteristics, patients with LAA sludge/thrombus exhibited higher left atrial (LA) volume, lower left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) and cardiac output. In the 2D TEE study they had lower LAA emptying and filling flow velocities compared to those without sludge/thrombus. 3D TEE showed overall higher 3D end-systolic (ES) and end-diastolic (ED) LAA measurements (ostium area, length, volume), and more frequently the absence of a chicken wing morphology. There were no intergroup differences regarding the number of LAA lobes (Table 1). Conclusion 3D characterization of LAA geometry and function depicts a degree of appendage remodeling in AF that appears to be associated with the degree of thrombogenicity. Further investigation is needed to determine the impact of this remodeling on outcomes in these patients.

Refining the prognosis of patients with AF using 3D transesophageal echocardiography of the left atrial appendage

Abstract Background Left atrial (LA) volume is considered an echocardiographic marker of thrombosis risk and prognosis in atrial fibrillation (AF). Limited data is available on the prognostic value of left atrial appendage (LAA) volume in AF as evaluated with three-dimensional (3D) transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). Purpose We hypothesized that 3D LAA volume is associated with prognosis in patients hospitalized with AF. Methods We prospectively evaluated 206 patients hospitalized for AF with two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and 3D TEE of the LAA within 24 hours of admission. 3D parameters were analysed off-line using Tomtec software (4D Cardio-View, Generic Volume, Philips). The primary composite outcome was all-cause death during at 2 years follow up. Results The median age of the study group was 66.3 ± 11.5 years with 129 (62.6%) men. In the global population, at admission, the median 3D LAAV was 9.02 (6.96-12.15) ml. Patients were divided into two groups according to the median 3D LAAV: Group 1: LAAV &amp;lt; 9ml (103 patients) and Group 2: LAAV ≥ 9ml (103 patients). Patients with LAAV ≥ 9ml had more frequently a history of heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. There were no significant intergroup differences in CHA2DS2-VASc score. Patients with LAAV ≥ 9ml had higher values of BNP and CRP and lower LVEF, higher LA volumes, higher E/e’, lower LAA emptying flow velocity, and higher 3D ES LAA ostium area. There were no statistical differences in LAA spontaneous echo contrast and LAA morphology between groups (Table 1). Kaplan–Meier curves demonstrated a significant difference in survival according to the 3D ES LAAV: 3 deaths occurred in the group with 3D ES LAA volume &amp;lt; 9mL and 11 in the group with 3D ES LAA Volume≥9mL (p=0.0315) (Figure 1). Conclusion Among LAA parameters, 3D LAA end-systolic volume is significantly associated with a worse outcome in patients with AF. Further investigations are needed to evaluate this unique parameter against usual geometric and functional LA/LAA parameters.

Novel 3D versus traditional transesophageal echocardiography techniques: Defining differences in the diagnosis of infective endocarditis.

Despite the availability of current antibiotic and surgical treatment options, infective endocarditis (IE) remains associated with a high mortality rate. Even though two-dimensional (2D) transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is a major criteria in the diagnosis of IE, it is constrained by the single-plane orientation. Since three-dimensional (3D) TOE provides a comprehensive understanding of the cardiac architecture by allowing for a realistic visualization of the underlying structures in 3D space, it has attracted considerable interest in recent years. The purpose of this narrative review is to discuss the advantages and pitfalls of 3D TOE in patients with IE, as well as to address emerging photo-realistic 3D techniques that have the potential to enhance the visualization of cardiac structures in this setting. According to recent research, 3D TOE acquisitions outperform 2D acquisitions in terms of vegetation identification accuracy and embolism risk assessment. By reporting a variety of findings that are missed with 2D TOE, but which are validated by surgical examination, 3D TOE further improves the ability to identify endocarditis complications on both native and prosthetic valves. In addition to conventional 3D TOE, future developments in 3D technology led to the development of transillumination and tissue-transparency rendering, which may improve anatomical understanding and depth perception. Due to the use of both conventional and novel 3D techniques, there are more patients who require surgical intervention, indicating that 3D TOE may have a clinical relevance on the surgical management. 3D TOE might fill the gaps left by 2D TOE in the diagnosis of IE.

Role of three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in cardiac myxomas: an imaging challenge.

Nowadays, the diagnosis of cardiac myxomas (CM), particularly the histological types, remains a challenge. Two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic (TT) and transesophageal (TEE) echocardiography (ECHO) represent the first steps in the imaging pathway. 3D ECHO, implemented in imaging practice, appears to be an emerging diagnostic technique that overcomes some of the limitations of 2D ECHO while integrating the information provided by magnetic resonance (MRI). However, its role in the imaging arena is still debatable. Analyzing 17 myxomas in 13 patients, the study uncovers a diverse anatomical spectrum. Classical CM morphology is a minority, with most myxomas being sessile and originating from unexpected locations (right ventricular outflow tract and left atrial appendage). Texture and size variations are also noted. Comparing imaging, 2D TEE outperforms 2D TT in visualizing anatomical features, especially attachment types. 3D TEE confirms 2D TT findings and offers more detailed assessments, identifying peduncles missed in four cases by 2D TEE. Two small recurrent myxomas were exclusively detected by 3D TEE, not by 2D TEE or MRI. Two patients have papillary myxomas, one has an embolism. Another patient with a solid myxoma also suffers an embolism, with a clot found at the apex during surgery. Our study showed that CM has a wide anatomical spectrum beyond the typical features, making the diagnosis challenging. Therefore, a multimodality imaging approach is essential for distinguishing CM from other cardiac masses and differentiating myxoma histological types. These findings stress the importance of incorporating 3D ECHO alongside other imaging techniques for a comprehensive evaluation.

Validation study of new left atrial appendage closure device measurement by two-dimensional and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography.

In left atrial appendage closure using WATCHMAN FLX, accurate device measurement by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is important. We aimed to experimentally validate appropriate methods of device measurement with two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) TEE compared with actual size. We prepared a full range of device sizes (20, 24, 27, 31, 35mm), each with five different compression rates. Each device was measured by 2D and 3D TEE at depths of 2, 4, and 6cm in vitro using inner, outer, and middle line methods. We compared the difference between the actual size by caliper and measurements at each compression rate and depth by the three methods in 2D and 3D TEE. A total of 450 patterns of measurements were analyzed. The differences using the middle line method were much less than those using the inner and outer line methods in 2D and 3D TEE (2D TEE: 0.45 ± 0.36 vs. 2.55 ± 0.99 vs. 2.59 ± 0.72mm, p < 0.01; 3D TEE: 0.34 ± 0.27 vs. 2.38 ± 0.69 vs. 1.86 ± 0.77mm, p < 0.01). Moreover, the differences in measurements by 3D TEE were more accurate than those of 2D TEE in the inner (2.47 ± 1.86 vs. 1.86 ± 0.77mm, p < 0.01) and middle (0.58 ± 0.37 vs. 0.34 ± 0.27mm, p < 0.01) line methods. Middle line method by 3D TEE is the most reliable approach for device measurement at left atrial appendage closure using WATCHMAN FLX device.

Tricuspid leaflet identification on 2D multiplane transoesophageal echocardiography: lessons from 3D

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: None. Background —Tricuspid valve (TV) leaflet identification by two-dimensional (2D) transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is complex due to the high variability of the combinations of leaflets visualized in each view. While three-dimensional (3D) imaging can easily overcome this problem by acquiring the whole valve anatomy, the overall image quality is often suboptimal and the technique somewhat unsuitable for real-time monitoring during interventional procedures like TriClip implantation. Using information derived from both 2D and multiplanar reconstruction (MPR) of 3D datasets, we aimed at describing anatomical landmarks able to identify TV leaflets easily and effectively during multiplane 2D TOE. Methods —TOE data from 83 patients was retrospectively collected. Multiplane 2D images of the TV and matching 3D datasets recorded from the same probe position were compared to precisely identify the leaflets visualized on each 2D image. To increase the number of multiplane (orthogonal) 2D images available for analysis, a novel approach was used: the 3D data of each patient was appropriately sliced to simulate and accurately match what would be seen by "sweeping" the cursor across the TV during real-time multiplane imaging (Fig. 1). After data analysis, a comprehensive "two-step" reference table was generated. To evaluate the clinical utility of the findings, eleven (11) echocardiographers were shown a random set of 5 images, and asked to label the leaflets visualized, prior and after a brief explanation on how to use the proposed reference table. Results —After removal of redundant information, a total of 231 sets of leaflets combinations was obtained. The number of leaflets visualized (one or two) and the presence (or absence) of the interventricular septum allowed consistent identification of the TV leaflets depicted in the 2D home view, as confirmed by correlation with the matching 3D MPR dataset. A similar analysis was carried out on the orthogonal 2D images resulting from three different multiplane cursor positions (distal, mid, and proximal to the aortic valve/interventricular septum). By combining information from the two views, leaflet identification was accurate, intuitive and easy, as summarized in the reference table (Fig. 2). The accuracy in exact leaflet recognition was rather modest (mean score of 1 out of 5) among echocardiographers with different experience in TV TOE, but significantly increased (mean score of 3.2 out of 5) with the adoption of the proposed approach, accounting for a 44% improvement in accuracy (p &amp;lt;0.001). Conclusion — Simple anatomical landmarks allow precise TV leaflet identification during multiplane 2D TOE. A simplified two-step approach significantly improves accuracy in leaflet recognition among both beginners and advanced echocardiographers.

Windows, Wings and Wonder: Advanced Cardiac Imaging Via Transesophageal Two-Dimensional and Transthoracic Three-Dimensional Echocardiography for the Accurate Diagnosis of Double-Orifice Mitral Valve in the Background of Primum Atrial Septal Defect: A Case Report

The assessment of mitral valve anatomy can be difficult or even misleading on standard cardiac imaging procedures. Such is the scenario in a 40-year-old woman with an incidental finding of atrial septal defect (ASD) and consideration of a trileaflet versus double-orifice mitral valve (DOMV) on transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiography. Further interrogation using transesophageal two-dimensional and transthoracic three-dimensional (3D) echocardiography (to allow more accurate assessment and simultaneous viewing of multiple imaging planes) revealed the typical “seagull wing” configuration of the mitral valve on long-axis view and two distinct but nearly equal-sized orifices on short-axis view, one oriented anteriorly and the other posteriorly. The patient’s DOMV was classified as an incomplete bridge type as confirmed on 3D imaging, with each orifice having its own set of papillary muscles and chordal attachments. The mitral regurgitation was graded as severe, resulting from leaflet prolapse of the anterior orifice. No left ventricular outflow tract obstruction was demonstrated in this case, and the overall left ventricular systolic function was preserved. The ASD was of the primum type, with the configuration and exact location verified through 3D imaging. The accurate detection of congenital anomalies via noninvasive techniques and complementary advanced modalities is vital for preoperative planning, as well as anticipation of potential complications related to the structural anomalies. To our knowledge, this is the first local report of DOMV with primum ASD in an adult. KEYWORDS: double-orifice mitral valve, primum atrial septal defect, transesophageal and three dimensional echocardiography

Accuracy and Reliability of Left Atrial Appendage Morphology Assessment by Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiographic Glass Rendering Modality: A Comparative Study With Computed Tomography

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is the reference-standard imaging technique to assess left atrial appendage (LAA) morphology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reliability of two-dimensional and new three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiographic rendering modalities in assessing LAA morphology. Seventy consecutive patients who underwent both computed tomography and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) were retrospectively enrolled. The traditional LAA morphology classification system (LAAcs; chicken wing, cauliflower, cactus, and windsock) and a new simplified LAAcs based on the LAA bend angle were used for the analysis. LAA morphology was independently assessed by two trained readers using three different modalities: two-dimensional TEE, 3D TEE with multiplanar reconstruction, and a new 3D transesophageal echocardiographic rendering modality with improved transparency (Glass). The new LAAcs and traditional LAAcs were compared in terms of intra- and interrater reliability. With the new LAAcs, two-dimensional TEE was fairly accurate in identifying LAA morphology (κ=0.43, P<.05), with moderate interrater (κ=0.50, P<.05) and substantial intrarater (κ=0.65, P<.005) agreement. Three-dimensional TEE showed higher accuracy and reliability: 3D TEE with multiplanar reconstruction had almost perfect accuracy (κ=0.85, P<.001) and substantial (κ=0.79, P<.001) interrater reliability, while 3D TEE with Glass had substantial accuracy (κ=0.70, P<.001) and almost perfect (κ=0.84, P<.001) interrater reliability. Intrarater agreement was almost perfect for both 3D transesophageal echocardiographic modalities (κ=0.85, P<.001). Accuracy was considerably lower when the traditional LAAcs was used, with 3D TEE with Glass being the most reliable technique (κ=0.75, P<.05). The new LAAcs showed higher inter- and intrarater reliability compared with the traditional LAAcs (interrater, κ=0.85 vs κ=0.49; intrarater, κ=0.94 vs κ=0.68; P<.05). Three-dimensional TEE is an accurate, reliable, and feasible alternative to computed tomography in assessing LAA morphology with the new LAAcs. The new LAAcs shows higher reliability rates than the traditional one.

Intracardiac echocardiographic imaging with a cartosound module for guidance of left atrial appendage closure: a comparative study with transesophageal echocardiographic imaging.

In most clinical trials, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has provided fewer views than the four standard views provided by transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) when assessing left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) devices. This study aimed to determine if ICE guided by the CartoSound system achieve adequate high-quality views and similar clinical outcomes as TEE during LAAC. This study prospectively enrolled 202 patients who underwent LAAC using either ICE (n = 69), TEE (n = 121), or a combination of ICE and TEE (n = 12) as the procedural imaging under local anesthesia. A novel multi-angled "FLAVOR" approach was used for assessment in the ICE group. ICE allowed visualization of the implanted devices in all patients at all proposed angles with long-axis views while two-dimensional (2D) TEE showed short-axis views in 1 or 2 angles in 24.2% of cases, which was more prevalent when the pulmonary ridge was covered by the occluder. In the combined ICE-TEE cohort, 2D-TEE failed to detect peri-device leak in 1 patient. The complication rates were similar between the ICE and TEE groups. Shorter fluoroscopy time, lower radiation dose and contrast usage were founded in the ICE group. At first TEE follow-up, the rate and degree of peri-device leak were similar between the ICE and TEE groups. A systematic ICE protocol using a CartoSound module to guide LAAC was reliable for comprehensive long-axis imaging assessment compared with 2D/3D TEE under local anesthesia with a shorter fluoroscopy time, lower radiation dose, and less use of contrast.

Characterization of left atrial appendage geometry and function using three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in patients in atrial fibrillation

Few data are available on left atrial appendage (LAA) remodeling using three-dimensional (3D) transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in patients in atrial fibrillation (AF). The aim of this study was to evaluate LAA thrombogenic milieu, LAA velocities, spontaneous echocardiographic contrast/thrombus, 3D LAA geometry and volume in AF. We prospectively evaluated patients 206 hospitalized for AF with two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic and 3D TEE of the LAA within 24 hours of admission. 3D parameters were off-line analysed using Tomtec software (4D Cardio-View, Generic Volume, Philips) (Fig. 1). Patients were divided into two groups according to the type of AF at admission: paroxysmal AF (62 patients) or persistent AF (144 patients). Patients with persistent AF had higher BMI, more prevalent hypertension and diabetes, as well as history of AF, heart failure, renal failure. They had also higher CHA2DS2-VASc. Patients with persistent AF at admission had lower LVEF, higher left atrial volume, higher E and E/e′ and pulmonary arterial systolic pressure. Patients with persistent AF had more severe LAA spontaneous echo contrast/sludge, lower LAA emptying and filling flow velocity, and higher 3D LAA measurements (ostium area, length, volume) (Table 1). 3D evaluation of the LAA may reflect atrial remodeling in AF and seems to be associated with the burden of AF. Follow-up data are needed to determine the impact of such abnormalities in the risk stratification of such patients.

Diagnostic accuracy of two-dimensional and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in detecting pannus and thrombus in left mechanical valve obstruction.

Patients with suspected LMVO on transthoracic echocardiography were enrolled consecutively. All patients underwent two-dimensional and three-dimensional TEE, and open-heart surgery to replace obstructed valves. Macroscopic and microscopic analysis of the excised masses was used as the gold standard for the diagnosis of thrombus and/or pannus. Forty-eight patients [34 women (70.8%), age 49±13 years, New York Heart Association II: 68.8%, New York Heart Association III: 31.2%] were enrolled. In the diagnostic of thrombus, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of three-dimensional TEE were 89.2, 72.7, 85.4, 91.7, and 66.7%, respectively, compared with those of two-dimensional TEE (42.2, 66.7, 43.8, 95, and 7.1%, respectively). In the diagnosis of pannus, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of three-dimensional TEE were 53.3, 100, 85.4, 100, and 82.5%, respectively; compared with those of two-dimensional TEE (7.4, 90.5, 43.8, 50, and 43.2%, respectively). Receiver operating characteristic curves depict that the area under the curves of three-dimensional TEE was higher than the area under the curves of two-dimensional TEE in both diagnoses of thrombus and pannus (0.8560 vs. 0.7330, P=0.0427 and 0.8077 vs. 0.5484, P=0.005, respectively). This study indicated that three-dimensional TEE had a higher diagnostic value than two-dimensional TEE in the detection of thrombus and pannus in patients with LMVO, and can be a reliable imaging modality to identify the causes of LMVO.

Two and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography for pre-operative assessment of mitral valve morphology and regurgitation severity

Background: Two-dimensional (2D) transthoracic (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) are the two main diagnostic modalities used to assess valvular heart diseases, particularly for mitral valve injury. In patients who have the indication of mitral valve surgery, 2D TEE &amp; TTE have some limitations in identifying valve lesions. Three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (3D TEE) is more accurate than 2DTTE and 2DTEE in the qualitative assessment of mitral valve.&#x0D; Objectives. Evaluating valve morphology and the severity of mitral valve regurgitation using 2DTTE and 2D/3D TEE in patients who required surgical intervention, compared to surgical and left ventricular angiography findings. Subjects: 44 patients with surgical indication from September 2017 to June 2018 were enrolled in this study.&#x0D; Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted at Vietnam National Heart Institute from September 2017 to June 2018. 44 patients with mitral regurgitation who had indication for mitral valve surgery underwent 2D TEE and 2D/3D TEE before opened heart surgery for mitral valve, 17/44 had left ventriculogram during coronary angiogram before surgery.&#x0D; Results: Men/women ratio = 2/1. Mean age: 54.14 ± 13.066 years old. Most of patients (93,2%) had symptoms of heart failure with mean NYHA classification of 2.55 ± 0.504. 3D TEE showed higher diagnostic accuracy and better agreement with surgical findings compared to 2D TEE and 2D TTE in A2 prolapse, A3 prolapse, P3 prolapse, Kappa =1,1,0.65 respectively. For anterior leaflet perforation, 3D TEE had positive predictive value of 100% and better agreement (Kappa =1) in comparison with 2D TEE and 2D TTE with positive predictive value of 96,5 %, Kappa = 0,65. In identifying valve vegetation, 3D TEE had positive predictive value of 93%, kappa =0,82 which were higher than those of 2D TEE and 2D TTE (positive predictive value of 89,6 % and Kappa = 0,73). In evaluating mitral valve regurgitation, 3D TEE had positive predictive value of 100%, kappa =1 compared with positive predictive value of 76,5%, kappa of 0,47 of 2D TEE and 2D TTE. Conclusions: 3D TEE is valuable in localizing prolapse valve segments, especially for A2, A3 and P3 prolapse, as well as in diagnosing anterior leaflet perforation and vegetation of mitral valve. 3D TEE is also more valuable than 2D TEE and 2D TTE in assessing mitral regurgitation severity.

Utility of 3D Echocardiography for Device Sizing During Transcatheter ASD Closure: A Comparative Study.

Two-dimensional (2D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is commonly used for assessing patients undergoing transcatheter atrial septal defect (ASD) device closure. 3D TEE, albeit providing high resolution en-face images of ASD, is used in only a fraction of cases. We aimed to perform a comparative analysis between 3D and 2D TEE assessment for ASD device planning. This was a prospective, observational study conducted over a period of one year. Patients deemed suitable for device closure underwent 2D and 3D TEE at baseline. Defect characteristics, assessed separately in both modalities, were compared. Using regression analysis, we aimed to derive an equation for predicting device size using 3D TEE parameters. Thirty patients were included in the study, majority being females (83%). The mean age of the study population was 40.5 ± 12.05 years. Chest pain, dyspnea and palpitations were the common presenting complaints. All patients had suitable rims on 2D TEE. A good agreement was noted between 2D and 3D TEE for measured ASD diameters. 3D TEE showed that majority of defects were circular in shape (60%). The final device size used had high degree of correlation with 3D defect area and circumference. An equation was devised to predict device size using 3D defect area and circumference. The mean device size obtained from the equation was similar to the actual device size used in the study population (p = 0.31). Device sizing based on 3D TEE parameters alone is equally effective for transcatheter ASD closure as compared to 2D TEE.