transtoracic

Transtoracic refers to an approach or procedure that passes through the chest wall. The term is derived from "trans," meaning across or through, and "thoracic," relating to the thorax or chest. In a medical context, transtoracic interventions are typically surgical or diagnostic procedures.

One common example is transtoracic echocardiography, a non-invasive ultrasound technique used to examine the heart. A transducer is placed on the chest wall to transmit and receive sound waves, creating images of the heart's structure and function. This method is widely used for diagnosing various cardiac conditions.

Surgical procedures can also be described as transtoracic. For instance, a transtoracic approach to the heart might involve making an incision through the chest wall to access and operate on cardiac structures. This contrasts with other surgical routes, such as minimally invasive endoscopic procedures or approaches through other parts of the body. The specific technique and its implications depend heavily on the intended medical purpose.