1 Technical aspects of transoesophageal echocardiography

Over the last decade, transoesophageal echocardiography combined with Doppler modalities has evolved into the single most comprehensive diagnostic method in clinical cardiology. The multiplane transducer systems provide a higher yield of diagnostic quality images than mono- and biplane systems in less time. It is therefore the ideal modality for the intraoperative refinement of surgically relevant echocardiographic decision-making and monitoring. It is an essential tool in the evaluation and treatment of critically ill patients who often present with a diagnostic dilemma in the emergency department and in the intensive care environment, especially in mechanically ventilated patients. Further miniaturization of transducers will allow continuous monitoring of cardiac function of conditions in which the clinical status may rapidly change.