Clinical Research Directory

Comparing Cardiac Chamber Measurements: TTE vs. TEE Under Anesthesia

This study aims to compare two common ultrasound techniques used during heart surgery: transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TTE is performed by placing an ultrasound probe on the chest, while TEE involves inserting a probe into the esophagus, which provides closer and clearer images of the heart. Both methods are part of routine care for patients undergoing heart surgery. The goal of this study is to assess how well the measurements from TTE and TEE agree in evaluating heart chamber dimensions during surgery and to investigate how factors such as anesthesia, breathing techniques affect these measurements. This research involves 114 adult patients scheduled for heart surgery at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Participants will have TTE performed before and after surgery, and TEE will be conducted during surgery. All procedures are part of the usual standard of care. By comparing these imaging techniques, the study seeks to provide more accurate and up-to-date guidelines for cardiac measurements, ensuring better care for patients during heart surgery.