1. 1.    Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) test is especially useful in cases in which conventional echocardiography cannot offer a good image. Transesophageal echocardiogram is used to evaluate the internal heart structures and path of blood flow in congenital (present at birth) heart defects. Transesophageal echocardiogram is also used during heart surgery to evaluate the effects of surgical intervention to the heart, such as repair of congenital heart defects. Further, certain conditions of the heart, such as mitral valve disease, blood clots or masses inside the heart, dissection (tear) of the lining of the aorta (the artery which carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the body), and implanted prosthetic (artificial) heart valves may be better visualized and assessed with a transesophageal echocardiogram than with regular echocardiogram.

   2.    Transesophageal echocardiogram is also done to evaluate for blood clots in the heart prior to cardioversion or ablation procedures.

Please avoid all food and water for at least four hours before the test, including medication, unless directed to do otherwise by the doctor. Please bring a list of all medications that you are taking with you to the hospital on the day of the test.

1. 1.    Transesophageal echocardiogram may be performed on an outpatient basis or as part of your stay in a hospital. The patient will need to stop eating for at least 4-6 hours before the test.

   2.    The patient will be connected to an electrocardiogram monitor that records the electrical activity of the heart and monitors the heart during the procedure using small, adhesive electrodes. The vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and oxygenation level) will be monitored during the procedure.

   3.    A sedative is given through an intravenous (IV) line to help with relaxation and the throat is sprayed with an anesthetic to "numb" it.

   4.    A probe is passed through the mouth and into the esophagus. It is carefully moved until it is positioned directly next to the heart. Once the probe is in the right place, the images will be obtained. After the necessary images are obtained, the probe will be removed from the throat.

   5.    Transesophageal echocardiogram examination generally lasts 30-45 minutes.

1. After having transesophageal echocardiogram, your blood pressure, blood oxygen level, and other vital signs will be closely monitored. When your gag reflex has returned, your vital signs are stable, and you are more alert, the electrocardiogram electrode pads, the oxygen probe, and the intravenous will be removed. You can likely go home a few hours after having the test.



2. If a sedative has been given, patients should not drive or operate heavy machinery for at least 10-12 hours. Eating and drinking should be avoided for at least 2 hours because the throat will still be numb and the food or drink can potentially be aspirated into the lungs. Your throat may be sore for a few days following the procedure due to the insertion of the transesophageal echocardiogram probe. It is unusual to experience bleeding, persistent pain or fever. If these symptoms persist, you should report to the physician.

    

1. Patients with known problems of the esophagus, such as esophageal varices, esophageal obstruction, or radiation therapy to the area of the esophagus should be evaluated carefully by the physician before having the procedure.
2. Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications or latex should notify their physician.

 
Possible risks associated with a transesophageal echocardiogram include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. Breathing problems
2. Heart rhythm problems
3. Bleeding and perforation of the esophagus
4. Aspiration
5. A rare risk of death

There are no limitations for travel before or after the procedure.

The accuracy of the procedure depends on a number of factors. Please discuss with your doctor before the procedure.

What if this test is not performed?
Echocardiography is an invaluable tool in providing the doctor with important information about your heart. Without this information, the doctor may not be able to determine the best treatment for you.
 

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)