Purpose of Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is performed in order to better visualize the structures of the heart.  Some of the more common reasons for this test include the following:

• Detect blood clots or masses inside the heart
• Evaluate the heart valves or prosthetic (artificial) heart valves
• Look for holes between the chambers of the heart
• Assess for aortic dissection (tear in the lining of the aorta)
• Evaluate for possible heart sources that may have caused a stroke
• Detect vegetations or infections of the heart valves
• Evaluate catheters that have been placed in the heart

During the Procedure

A long, flexible tube called a probe (about the width of a little finger) is inserted into your mouth, then into the esophagus (the food tube). The ultrasound camera sits at the tip of the probe and sends out and receives sound waves to and from the heart. You are required to be NPO (nothing by mouth) for a minimum of 6-8 hours for this test. You will be asked to give consent. An intravenous (IV) catheter will be placed in the vein in your arm. The test begins with your throat being numbed by an anesthetic gel and occasionally a spray. Having a numb throat is an unusual feeling. Once your throat is numb, you will be given one or more drugs to help you relax during the test. The probe will be placed in the back of your throat and you will be asked to swallow. Swallowing allows the probe to pass gently into the food tube. Although you may feel the motion of the probe in the food tube, you should not feel pain. The doctor will acquire the ultrasound pictures. The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

After the Procedure

After the test, you will remain in examining room up to an additional 60 minutes to recover from the medication. You may feel sleepy during this time. You will be asked not to eat or drink anything for 2 hours or until your throat is no longer numb. You must have a driver with you to bring you home. After the procedure, you may feel sleepy from the medications. You may also have a sore throat. These side effects usually go away after a day or so. If you feel pain or have bleeding, report these symptoms to your doctor.