Transesophageal Echocardiography for Tetralogy of Fallot Repair: What a Perioperative Physician need to know?

Abstract

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is now an integral part of intraoperative management of TOF patients undergoing intracardiac repair. With the availability of micro TEE probes, intraoperative TEE care can now be provided to even the smallest of patients. It provides live images of the anatomical and pathophysiological state of the heart and allows perioperative physicians to modify surgical and medical treatment perioperatively.During pre-bypass period, TEE confirms preoperative diagnosis and can provide additional information which might be missed on transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). It also helps in modifying intraoperative surgical plan if new findings are detected intraoperatively. In addition, real time information on volume status and inotropy helps in management of hemodynamics and preventing hypercyanotic spells in prebypass period.Adequacy of surgical repair can be assessed in immediate post-bypass period and any residual defect can be corrected before patient leaves the operating room. Post repair information on anatomical and pathophysiologic status helps guiding management in intensive care unit.