Effect of performing real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in addition to two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography on operator diagnostic confidence.

Background: This study evaluates the effects of performing real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in addition to conventional two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography on diagnostic confidence.

Methods: Operator diagnostic confidence in addressing clinical questions posed by the referral was scored using a five-point scale for two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography alone and the combination of two-dimensional and real time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in 136 consecutive patients undergoing examination in an academic hospital.

Results: Mean diagnostic confidence score was higher for the combined studies compared to two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography alone (4.

Coronary sinus electrode does not reduce atrial defibrillation thresholds.

Background: Atrial defibrillation can be achieved with a conventional dual-coil, active pectoral implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) lead system. Shocking vectors that incorporate an additional electrode in the CS have been used, but it is unclear if they improve atrial DFTs.

Objective: The objective of this prospective, randomized study was to determine if a coronary sinus (CS) electrode reduces atrial defibrillation thresholds (DFTs).