Key result
Three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography confirmed that an echogenic band in the left atrium was the coumadin ridge, demonstrating the absence of obstruction.
Why the study?
Can 3D TTE identify the nature of an echogenic band-like structure in the left atrium seen on 2D TTE?
Case Report
Can 3D TTE identify the nature of an echogenic band-like structure in the left atrium seen on 2D TTE?
3D TTE is a useful imaging modality for confirming the anatomical identity of the 'coumadin ridge' in the left atrium, distinguishing it from pathological structures.
3D TTE may clarify ambiguous left atrial structures on 2D imaging; hypothesis-generating and should not yet change practice.
An echogenic band like structure was seen in the left atrium on two dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE). Full volume three dimensional (3D) TTE and colour Doppler established the surrounding anatomical landmarks, and demonstrated the absence of obstruction related to this band. 3D TTE confirmed that this band like structure was consistent with the ridge between the left atrial appendage and left superior pulmonary vein ('warfarin/coumadin ridge').
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McKay et al. (2006) conducted a case report in Echogenic band in the left atrium (Coumadin ridge). Three dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3D TTE) vs. Two dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (2D TTE) was evaluated on Identification of anatomical landmarks and absence of obstruction. Three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography confirmed that an echogenic band in the left atrium was the coumadin ridge, demonstrating the absence of obstruction.
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