A minimum dataset for a standard transoesophageal echocardiogram: a guideline protocol from the British Society of Echocardiography

Abstract

A systematic approach to transoesophageal echocardiography (TOE) is essential to ensure that no pathology is missed during a study. In addition, a standardised approach facilitates the education and training of operators and is helpful when reviewing studies performed in other departments or by different operators. This document produced by the British Society of Echocardiography aims to provide a framework for a standard TOE study. In addition to a minimum dataset, the layout proposes a recommended sequence in which to perform a comprehensive study. It is recommended that this standardised approach is followed when performing TOE in all clinical settings, including intraoperative TOE to ensure important pathology is not missed. Consequently, this document has been prepared with the direct involvement of the Association of Cardiothoracic Anaesthetists (ACTA).

Profiling student mental health and counselling effectiveness: lessons from four UK services using complete data and different outcome measures

“…The broader context of developing a standardised minimum dataset (SMD) has been adopted by many disciplines (e.g. Castonguay et al, 2010;Johnson, 1997;Lutomski et al, 2013Lutomski et al, , 2015NHS Digital, 2019;Palmer et al, 2013;Wheeler et al, 2015). Developing a SMD for student mental health and wellbeing would encourage institutions to review the quality and type of data being collected on students and inform the broader debate of using appropriate metrics to evaluate interventions.…”

TOE imaging of a large aortic mass: an unusual cause of systemic embolization in a septic patient

“…TOE is considered the best imaging technique for aortic thrombi ( 2 ), and in this case, it clarified the correct diagnosis. A systematic TOE protocol ( 3 ) with assessment of all structures including descending aorta should be followed irrespective of the original indication. In the present case, a more focussed study might have missed the main pathology that was captured due to the thoroughness of the operator in completing the scan including all aortic views.…”

The modern role of transoesophageal echocardiography in the assessment of valvular pathologies

“…The significance of a systematic approach in performing every transoesophageal examination cannot be emphasised strongly enough. The recent guidelines developed by the British Society of Echocardiography (BSE) provide a framework for performing a standardised TOE in any clinical settings ( 1 , 2 ). This is particularly important when assessing valvular pathologies because the judgement of the severity depends on the assessment of size and function of both ventricles and concomitant pathologies, which may alter the physiology.…”