Multiplane transesophageal echocardiography. Imaging planes, echocardiographic anatomy, and clinical experience with a prototype phased array OmniPlane probe.
Multiplane transesophageal echocardiography is a new exciting development in echocardiography.  We examined the methodology and echo-anatomic correlations of multiplane transesophageal echocardiography and its clinical applications in 100 patients.  We used a 5-MHz phased array multiplane (OmniPlane) transesophageal probe.  In this instrument, the transducer array can be steered through 180 degrees  from any transducer location.  This provides a vast assembly of imaging planes, allowing for detailed visualization of all dimensions of cardiac anatomy.  This report presents our observations on the echocardiographic anatomy seen in various image planes and the unique clinical potential of multiplane transesophageal echocardiography in the diagnostic assessment of cardiovascular disorders.  This technique appears to provide incremental diagnostic information that enhances the interpretative ability.  Less esophageal probe manipulation is required with consequent decrease in patient discomfort.  We conclude that multiplane transesophageal echocardiography enhances the versatility of transesophageal examination and offers many new avenues for developments such as three-dimensional echocardiography.
Cardiovascular Imaging and Hemodynamic Laboratory, Tufts-New England Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
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NG
Pandian
T L
TL
Hsu
S L
SL
Schwartz
A
A
Weintraub
Q L
QL
Cao
A T
AT
Schneider
G
G
Gordon
M
M
England
J
J
Simonetti
D004452:Echocardiography / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods*; D004947:Esophagus; D006331:Heart Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans