ABSTRACT
In the past years, intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) has emerged as a valuable imaging tool for interventional and electrophysiological procedures. ICE allows real-time visualization of important anatomical structures that cannot be visualized on fluoroscopy and is not associated with radiation exposure to the patient and operator. ICE is generally performed by placing the probe within the right atrium (RA) or the right ventricle (RV). Currently, two different ICE technologies are available. The first approach utilizes a mechanical ultrasound-tipped catheter, which can also be used for endovascular echocardiography. The second uses an electronic ultrasound catheter that is equipped with a phased array transducer at its tip. A transseptal puncture provides antegrade access to the left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) during left-sided interventional procedures as an alternative to a retrograde approach through the aortic valve and mitral valve (MV). ICE is a valuable imaging tool for a wide variety of interventional and electrophysiological procedures.
