USE OF TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY TO DETECT UNSUSPECTED MASSIVEPULMONARY EMBOLI

This report describes three patients in whom unsuspected large central pulmonary emboli were identified by transesophageal echocardiography. We discuss the utility and limitations of transesophageal echocardiog raphy in diagnosing pulmonary emboli and its potential beneficial impa ct on the management of patients in the intensive care unit, particula rly those with unexplained hypotension.