The goal of this observational study is to assess the impact of imaging modality (trans-thoracic echo (TTE) vs trans-esophageal echo (TEE)), anesthesia and positive pressure ventilation on the grading of aortic insufficiency.
Patients scheduled for cardiac surgery and in whom a TEE is going to be performed intra-operatively will be enrolled. The grading of the aortic insufficiency will be compared between a TTE performed immediately before the induction of general anesthesia end the TEE performed after induction of general anesthesia.
Known aortic regurgitation of any grade
Scheduled for a cardiac surgery procedure during which a trans-esophageal echo is planned.
Non sinus rhythm
Mitral regurgitation more than mild.
Pre-operative critical state (according to the definition of the EuroSCORE II)
Presence of a prosthetic aortic valve