Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) in atrial fibrillation

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) has contributed to our understanding and management of patients with atrial fibrillation. TEE evaluation of the left atrium and left atrial appendage has given new insight into the pathogenesis of thromboembolic events. This has allowed for better risk stratification of these patients and has given rise to a new treatment option - TEE-guided cardioversion. This alternative approach appears safe and feasible. The results of multicenter randomized study (ACUTE) will soon be released, which will address the efficacy and safety of the TEE-guided approach compared with the standard therapy as defined by 3 weeks of anticoagulation followed by cardioversion.