A Proposed Maneuver to Guide Transseptal Puncture Using Real-Time Three-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography: Pilot Study

Aim of Study. To assess the feasibility of a new proposed maneuver "RATLe-90" using real-time three-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (RT-3DTEE) for anatomically oriented visualization of the interatrial septum (IAS) in guiding the transseptal puncture TSP. Methods. The study included 20 patients (mean age, 60.2 +/- 6.7 years; 60% males) who underwent TSP for different indications. RT-3DTEE was used to guide TSP. The proposed maneuver RATLe-90 (Rotate-Anticlockwise-Tilt-Left-90) was applied in all cases to have the anatomically oriented en face view of the IAS from the right atrial (RA) aspect. Having this anatomically oriented view, we guided the TSP catheter towards the proper puncture site according to the planned procedure. Results. Using the RATLe-90 maneuver, the anatomically oriented en face view of the IAS from the RA was obtained in all patients. We were able to guide the puncture catheter to the proper puncture site on the IAS. The 3D images obtained were clearly understood by both echocardiographers and interventionists. The RATLe-90 maneuver acquisition time was 19.9 +/- 1.6 seconds. The time-to-tent was 64.8 +/- 16.3 seconds. Less TEE probe manipulations were needed while guiding the TSP. Conclusions. Application of RT3D-TEE during TSP using RATLe-90 maneuver is feasible with shorter fluoroscopy time and minimizing TEE probe manipulations.