Objectives: To assess the value and limitations of using transoesophageal echocardiography as the sole diagnostic test in patients with suspected thoracic aortic dissection.
Design: Retrospective data review over a two year period.
Setting: A regional cardiothoracic centre.
Patients: Data were compiled from admission records, surgical records, and lists of patients undergoing diagnostic investigations in the hospital. Patient's notes were used to identify presentation, management, and outcome.
Interventions: Patients were managed according to the policy of our unit, which is to treat patients with dissection affecting the ascending aorta by an operation. Patients with uncomplicated dissection sparing the ascending aorta are initially managed medically.
Main outcome measures: In hospital and two year follow-up of patients who were investigated by transoesophageal echocardiography alone.
Results: Of 48 patients referred, 45 underwent transoesophageal echocardiography. Dissection was confirmed in 22 patients. Transoesophageal echocardiography showed the proximal extent of the dissection in 21/22 (96%) and only one patient required a further diagnostic investigation. Ten patients with dissection of the ascending aorta underwent graft replacement of the ascending aorta; operative mortality was 10% and their two year survival was 80%. Of the eight patients with dissection of the descending aorta, six were discharged home, and five were alive at two years. No patient without evidence of dissection on their initial transoesophageal echocardiographic examination required re-investigation into possible dissection in the two years after discharge.
Conclusions: In patients with suspected thoracic dissection transoesophageal echocardiography rapidly and safely gives all the necessary diagnostic information. Further investigations, including coronary angiography, before surgery are unnecessary.