Investigating the use of ultrasound imaging during heart bypass surgery

The Role of Intraoperative Transesophageal Echocardiography During Isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Surgery

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10914283

This study is looking at whether using a special ultrasound called transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) during heart bypass surgery can help doctors make better decisions and lower the chances of complications for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10914283 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the use of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), an ultrasound technique, during isolated coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. It aims to determine whether TEE can improve surgical decision-making and reduce complications in patients undergoing this common heart procedure. The study will address the current lack of randomized evidence regarding the benefits and risks of TEE, which is crucial given the conflicting results from previous observational studies. By examining the effectiveness and safety of TEE, the research seeks to provide foundational data for future trials that could clarify its role in cardiac surgery.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients scheduled for isolated coronary artery bypass graft surgery who may benefit from enhanced intraoperative monitoring.

Not a fit: Patients undergoing other types of cardiac surgeries or those who are not candidates for CABG may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical outcomes and better decision-making during heart bypass surgeries.

How similar studies have performed: While this research addresses a critical evidence gap, previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of TEE in cardiac surgery, indicating that this area is still under investigation.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.