The diagnostic validity of digitally captured intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography examinations compared with analog recordings: A pilot study

Background: Digital acquisition and storage of echocardiographic studies of fer many advantages over analog recordings, but the amount of computer memo ry required may be large. "Computer compression" of data is done by machine s with various algorithms. "Clinical compression" involves limiting the rec ordings to 1-beat loops, and although it is commonly used, its diagnostic v alidity has not been demonstrated in the operating room. Methods: This prospective pilot study looked at 51 patients undergoing tran sesophageal echocardiography during cardiac surgery. During continuous vide ocassette recording, we captured digital loops to demonstrate wall motion a bnormalities, ventricular systolic function, aortic insufficiency, and mitr al regurgitation. Experts reviewed the loops and tapes. We then compared th e diagnoses from the 2 methods, Results: There were major differences in the diagnosis of wall motion betwe en loops and tapes in only 3.4% of myocardial segments. No major difference s were seen in the diagnosis of systolic function, aortic insufficiency, or mitral regurgitation in any patients. Conclusion: We conclude that clinical compression is a suitable method to c ompress data In the operating room. Large numbers of patients are required to definitively demonstrate the small differences.