Role of real-time three dimensional echocardiography in cardiovascular interventions

摘要

RT 3D echocardiography is an excellent imaging tool that adds to the available information provided by traditional imaging modalities. The main advantage of this technique is the ability to visualise the entire length of intracardiac catheters as well as the balloons or devices attached to the catheters, and their position in relation to important cardiac structures. These images only require a single probe and transducer angle minimising the need to manipulate the probe. As well, with RT 3D echocardiography, an en face view of certain structures is now possible. This view allows precise evaluation of anatomic structures during procedures. RT 3D imaging also provides information not available by 2D TOE, which may prove crucial in completing the intervention. Overall, RT 3D TOE improves procedural imaging and is becoming the technique of choice for percutaneous procedures.