Transeosophageal echocardiography in neonates, infants and children: applicability and diagnostic value in everyday practice of a cardiothoracic unit

Abstract

Transoesophageal echocardiography is a valuable additional investigative tool for children of all ages. It is of particular value when acquisition of precordial image is impaired around the time of and after operation and in children with prosthetic valves or mediastinal tumour. Image quality was superior with the adult probe and we recommend the use of this probe unless the patient's weight is below 7 kg, when a paediatric probe allows this technique to be used usefully and safely in babies as small as 2.2 kg.