Ultrasound cardioscopy: embarking on a new journey.
OBJECTIVE
To present the results of investigation of a new application of invasive ultrasonography-ultrasound cardioscopy, a procedure in which a self-contained ultrasound device is capable not only of producing an under-blood field of view but also of delivering diagnostic and therapeutic tools.


METHODS
Twenty adult mongrel dogs were studied with the ultrasound cardioscopy device during experimental catheter ablation procedures.


METHODS
A rigid prototype probe, 34 cm long and 8 mm in diameter with a 7-MHz side-viewing transducer at the tip and an 8-F diameter tool delivery port, was introduced through the right external jugular vein into the right heart chambers. Remote and device-directed ablation procedures were monitored. Subsequently, the canine hearts were excised and examined.


RESULTS
The self-contained cardioscopy device with a contained ablation catheter could both direct and visualize a specified ablation injury. Under-blood observation of the details of the ablation procedure was possible. Although a learning curve existed for appropriate manipulation of the device, inspection of the excised hearts showed that the size of the injury was accurately predicted with use of ultrasound cardioscopy.


CONCLUSIONS
Ultrasound cardioscopy is a promising means of performing precise under-blood diagnostic and therapeutic maneuvers.
Seward
J B
JB
Division of Cardiovascular Diseases, Mayo Clinic Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
Packer
D L
DL
Chan
R C
RC
Curley
M
M
Tajik
A J
AJ
D000818:Animals; D017115:Catheter Ablation / Q000379:methods; D004285:Dogs; D004452:Echocardiography; D019723:Endoscopes; D004724:Endoscopy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male