CR#13 Insertion of a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) probe

Journal of Cardiothoracic and Vascular Anesthesia, Vol 22, No 2 (April), 2008: pp 331-339 
Y. Hirabayashi, N. Seo. Jichi Medical University. Japan

Similar to endotracheal intubation, the TEE probe can be inserted easily under optical control.

The Airtraq is significantly rugged compared with the TEE probe, and, hence, it is less susceptible to damage and provides easy maneuverability of the TEE probe. Even when the esophageal orifice is not identified through the viewfinder of the scope, the thick blade could provide the potential space for advancing the probe tip into the pharynx. We attempted this method in a patient with difficult blind insertion of the TEE probe and were successful in inserting the probe quickly and without any assistance.

Since that attempt, many operators at our institution have elected to use the Airtraq to insert the TEE probe, especially in patients with difficult insertion.

The Airtraq-aided esophageal introduction of the TEE probe is a safe and simple method during general anesthesia.

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