Transesophageal Echocardiography for Diagnosis and Treatment of Aortic Diseases

TEE is recognized and accurate method for diagnosis of all thoracic aortic diseases. This technique does not expose the patient to radiation or injection of toxic contrast agent. TEE can be performed at the bedside and in critical circumstances. In addition, it provides determinant data concerning left ventricular function, volumes and associated valve abnormalities. It requires a trained medical team. Nevertheless, aortic diseases need a regular follow-up. In that case, MRI offers the advantage of a noninvastive method. Management of stenting and other interventional procedures represents promising new perspectives for TEE.