What is a Transesophageal Echo
(TEE)?
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a test that doctors use to obtain
images of the heart from inside the esophagus (swallowing tube). The esophagus
lies immediately behind the heart and with this technology, very clear images of the heart
can be obtained. This test is used by doctors to visualize structures of the heart
not seen by a standard echocardiogram (from the outside chest wall) as well as clarify
structures which may be otherwise poorly seen.
How is the Transesophageal Echo Test Done?
The test is performed by inserting a long flexible probe with an ultrasound
transducer at its tip through the mouth and into the esophagus just behind the
heart. The transducer send high frequency sound waves into the heart, which return
as echoes. These echoes are converted into a real time image of the beating heart
and blood flow through the chambers and valves. The image are displayed on a video
monitor and are recorded on videotape or disk.
Transesophageal Probe
The TEE is a valuable test to detect:
- Blood clots within the heart.
- Defects or holes between heart chambers.
- Severity of valve disease.
- Function of prosthetic (artificial) heart valves.
- Infection of the heart valves.
- Tears or blood clots in the aorta (The main artery leaving
the heart).
Preparation for the Test
Do not eat or drink for 6-8 hours prior to the test. You may have sips of
water to take your medications.
Arrange to have someone drive you to the clinic or hospital and drive you
home. Do not plan to drive yourself home, as you may be drowsy after the test.
On the day of the test at the Hospital or Clinic:
You will be given an explanation of the procedure, its benefits and possible
risks.
You will be asked to sign a consent form. Feel free to ask any questions you may
have concerning the test or the remaining part of the day.
You will be asked to remove any dentures or dental prostheses as they may
interfere with the test.
External electrodes and a blood pressure cuff will be attached to you to monitor
heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen content of the blood.
An intravenous line will be inserted into an arm vein to administer medications.
A small amount of supplemental oxygen will be administered to help with your
breathing.
Your throat will be sprayed with an anesthetic spray to numb it and you will be
asked to lie on your left side while a sedative is administered to help you relax.
The probe will be slowly passed through the mouth and into esophagus. You
may feel the probe being directed as needed but it is generally not painful.
During the transesophageal echocardiography procedure
Once the probe is removed, you will be monitored for a sort while
until you are awake and able to swallow.
The findings of the test are usually available immediately, however if you are
still drowsy the findings may be discussed with you at a later time.
After the Test:
- You will be given instructions as to what you should and
should not do the rest of the day.
- Do not drive or operate machinery for the remainder of the
day.
- You must have someone drive you home.
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