In situ Transesophageal Echocardiography During Electrical Cardioversion in Patients with Atrial Fibrillation – Safety and Echocardiographic Findings

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) can reliably detect left atrial (LA) and LA appendage (LAA) thrombus in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) before electrical cardioversion (ECV). However, evaluating cardiac and valve function pre-ECV can be challenging due to the increased and irregular heart rate. Additionally, post-ECV atrial stunning increases the risk of thrombosis. Therefore, post-ECV TEE may allow for useful appendage, ventricular and valve function assessment. However, the safety and usefulness of leaving the TEE probe in situ during ECV for post-ECV cardiac evaluation in clinical practice have not been previously evaluated.
Source: Journal of the American Society of Echocardiography - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Clinical Investigations Source Type: research