Diagnostic accuracy of two-dimensional and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in detecting pannus and thrombus in left mechanical valve obstruction.

Unlabelled: The aim of this study was to determine the accuracy of two-dimensional and three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in the detection of pannus and thrombus in left mechanical valve obstruction (LMVO) compared with surgical and histopathology findings.

Materials And Methods: Patients with suspected LMVO on transthoracic echocardiography were enrolled consecutively. All patients underwent two-dimensional and three-dimensional TEE, and open-heart surgery to replace obstructed valves.