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A minimum dataset for a standard transoesophageal echocardiogram: a guideline protocol from the British Society of Echocardiography

Abstract

A systematic approach to transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is essential to ensure that no pathology is missed during a study. In addition, a standardised approach facilitates the education and training of operators and is helpful when reviewing studies performed in other departments or by different operators. This document produced by the British Society of Echocardiography aims to provide a framework for a standard TOE study. In addition to a minimum dataset, the layout proposes a recommended sequence in which to perform a comprehensive study. It is recommended that this standardised approach is followed when performing TOE in all clinical settings, including intraoperative TOE to ensure important pathology is not missed. Consequently, this document has been prepared with the direct involvement of the Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthetists (ACTA).

Abbreviations

2D:

Two-dimensional

A1, A2, A3:

Scallops of anterior mitral valve leaflet

ASD:

Atrial septal defect

AV:

Aortic valve

CFM:

Colour flow Doppler

CW:

Continuous wave Doppler

ECG:

Electrocardiogram

IAS:

Interatrial septum

IVC:

Inferior vena cava

IVSd/s:

Inter ventricular septal dimension in diastole and systole

LA:

Left atrium

LAA:

Left atrial appendage

LLPV:

Left lower pulmonary vein

LUPV:

Left upper pulmonary vein

LV:

Left ventricle

LVDd/s:

Left ventricular diameter in diastole and systole

LVOT:

Left ventricular outflow tract

MR:

Mitral regurgitation

NCC:

Non coronary cusp

P1, P2, P3:

Scallops of posterior mitral valve leaflet

PA:

Pulmonary artery

PFO:

Patent foramen ovale

PW:

Pulse wave Doppler

RA:

Right atrium

RCC:

Right coronary cusp

RLPV:

Right lower pulmonary vein

RUPV:

Right upper pulmonary vein

RV:

Right ventricle

RVd:

Right ventricular cavity diameter in diastole

RVSP:

Right ventricular systolic pressure

SVC:

Superior vena cava

TOE:

Transoesophageal echocardiography

TR:

Tricuspid regurgitation

TTE:

Transthoracic echocardiogram

References

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Funding

This guideline did not receive any specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial or not-for-profit sector.

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R Wheeler is the lead author

R Steeds is the Guidelines Chair

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Wheeler, R., Steeds, R., Rana, B. et al. A minimum dataset for a standard transoesophageal echocardiogram: a guideline protocol from the British Society of Echocardiography. Echo Res Pract 2, G29–G45 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0024

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1530/ERP-15-0024

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