Transthoracic and Transoesophageal Echocardiography

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) are available tests for AAD.

Which is the more definitive test for AAD?

Transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is an ideal test because it can be performed in the resuscitation room. It has a sensitivity of 90-98% and can easily delineate the extent of the dissection and can visualise the aortic root and valve [1].

TTE is not a definitive test for AAD; it only has a sensitivity of approximately 80% for Type A and 50% for Type B dissections, so TTE may miss the dissection altogether. It may however have a role in some centres alongside CT scanning.