News

The Cayman Islands Health Services Authority (HSA) announces the integration of advanced three-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography (3D-TTE) technology into its Cardiology Unit’s Echocardiography Laboratory. This cutting-edge technology enhances the precision and depth of cardiac assessments, providing significant improvements over traditional two-dimensional echocardiography (2D-TTE).

Three-dimensional echocardiography offers detailed and accurate measurements of cardiac chamber size, function, and structure. Unlike 2D imaging, which can have limitations, 3D-TTE provides more precise measurements of the heart's chambers and how well they pump blood. This detailed information is crucial for making accurate diagnoses and planning the right treatment.

This advanced imaging technology is particularly valuable in evaluating both native and prosthetic heart valves, detecting congenital heart abnormalities, and guiding complex interventional procedures such as Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR), MitraClip placement, and Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD) implantation.

The impact of the new 3D echocardiography technology has already been demonstrated through improved outcomes for patients like Jordan Stewart, a 14-year-old athlete who faced health challenges following a muscle tear and mild neurological symptoms. To ensure there were no underlying heart issues, Jordan underwent a comprehensive cardiac evaluation. While traditional 2D echocardiography suggested a possible issue with the wall separating the heart's upper chambers, the use of 3D echocardiography provided a clearer view, helping to avoid the need for a more invasive procedure. The 3D-TTE confirmed that Jordan had a small Persistent Foramen Ovale (PFO), a common condition that typically requires no treatment. Additionally, the advanced imaging allowed for a precise assessment of his heart function, which is particularly important for his performance as a competitive runner. With these findings, no further invasive tests were deemed necessary.

“Prior to testing, I was assured that this advanced technology would provide accurate results, and I felt comfortable knowing that his matter was being thoroughly investigated and that Jordan was being provided with the best care,” stated Antonette McFarlane, Jordan’s mother. “We are happy to have had the experience of this technology, and the results have alleviated our concerns. Jordan is excited to continue pursuing his passion for track and field.”

Similarly, an 85-year-old patient, had been diagnosed with a severely narrowed aortic valve along with leakage in the mitral and tricuspid valves. Given her advanced age, a less invasive treatment approach was preferred to minimize surgical risks. The patient underwent Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) overseas, which successfully addressed her aortic valve issue. Although an attempt to correct the mitral valve leakage with a Mitral Clip was not successful, the use of 3D echocardiography played a crucial role in monitoring the changes in her heart valves and assessing the severity of the leakage. This detailed imaging enabled the medical team to choose the most appropriate treatment options and timing for her interventions.

"I am very thankful that the HSA has this advanced technology available on the island. It is always better for us patients when our healthcare services continue to develop their technology because it lessens the need for us to travel overseas," the patient noted.

The HSA Cardiology Unit is now equipped with three state-of-the-art echo machines, including portable units with advanced features like speckle tracking. This technology is essential for detecting spotting early signs of heart issues that might not yet be causing symptoms and is particularly beneficial for patients undergoing chemotherapy, those with heart failure, and others with complex heart conditions.

Each month, the department performs between 250 and 300 echocardiograms, utilising both exercise and pharmacological stress tests. The integration of 3D-TTE into routine practice highlights HSA's commitment to providing the highest quality cardiac care.

HSA Cardiologist Dr Joanna Kregiel emphasises, “This technology improves patient outcomes through more accurate diagnostics and better-guided interventions, potentially reducing the need for invasive procedures. Our ability to serve a wide range of patients, from neonates to adults, both inpatient and outpatient, is greatly enhanced. The noninvasive nature of echocardiography, especially with 3D-TTE, offers a safer, more efficient diagnostic option.”

Whether traditional 2D-TTE, advanced 3D-TTE, or slightly more invasive Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) is needed, patients at HSA can be assured of receiving the highest standard of cardiac care.