Authors : Irfan Tasoglu , Yildirim Imren and Levent Gokgoz
Abstract: Severe atherosclerosis of the descending aorta is directly related to atheroembolic events. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a sensitive technique for evaluating such atheroma plaques of the thoracic aorta which may predict the risk of emboli. We describe a patient with severe intraluminal aortic atherosclerotic plaques detected by TEE while positioning an Intraaortic Balloon Counterpulsation ( IABP ) during coronary artery by-pass grafting. IABP was re-positioned to prevent an emboli formation with the aid of TEE. TEE should be use to visualize descending aorta prior to IABP insertion.
Irfan Tasoglu , Yildirim Imren and Levent Gokgoz , 2005. Prevention of Possible Embolus Following Intra Aortic Balloon Counterpulsation (IABP) Insertion by Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) . The Cardiology, 1: 166-168.