The Journal of thoracic and cardiovascular surgery
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J. Thorac. Cardiovasc. Surg. · Jun 1992
Comparative StudyTransesophageal echocardiography in the emergency surgical management of patients with aortic dissection.
The diagnostic accuracy and benefit of transesophageal echocardiography were investigated in 32 patients with suspected aortic dissection. Results of transesophageal echocardiography were compared with surgical assessment. The Stanford classification was used for differentiation of dissection type. ⋯ Secondary tears and flow in the false lumen were detected in 35% of patients. We conclude that transesophageal echocardiography allows expedient and accurate diagnosis and classification of aortic dissection, and we recommend it as the primary bedside diagnostic modality. It can especially identify patients requiring surgical intervention without further delay caused by other diagnostic procedures.