Using transthoracic two-dimensional echocardiography to guide the placement of coronary sinus catheters: a randomized study.

摘要

Objective: To assess the value of transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) as an image guide in placing a coronary sinus catheter into the coronary sinus. Methods: Sixty consecutive patients undergoing electrophysiologic study were randomized to TTE (30 patients, "TTE group") or x-ray fluoroscopy (30 patients, "x-ray group") as an image guide to assist in the placement of a coronary sinus catheter. Results: The success rate of placing the coronary sinus catheter was 96.7% in TTE group and 100% in x-ray group (P > 0.05). The procedure duration was 5.8 +/- 5.7 minutes in TTE group and 5.9 +/- 3.3 minutes in x-ray group (P > 0.05), The x-ray exposure time was 0.15 +/- 0 minute in TTE group and 4.2 +/- 2.8 minutes in x-ray group (P < 0.0001). Conclusion: Using TTE as an image guide, coronary sinus cannulation is feasible and as rapid as standard x-ray fluoroscopy, without the radiation risk.