Transesophageal Echocardiography Is Superior to Transthoracic Echocardiography in Management of Patients of Any Age With Transient Ischemic Attack or Stroke

Abstract

TEE proved superior to TTE for identification of a cardiac embolic source in patients with TIA or stroke without pre-existent indication or contraindication for anticoagulation. In patients with normal TTE, a cardiac source of embolism was detected by TEE in approximately 40% of patients, independent of age. More than 1 of 8 patients of any age with normal TTE revealed a major cardiac risk factor on TEE, in whom anticoagulation is warranted.