Transesophageal Echocardiography

What is transesophageal echocardiography?
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) involves the placement of an ultrasound probe into the esophagus to view the heart, heart valves and aorta. This technique is useful in diagnosing the cause of a stroke, evaluating the heart valves for possible leaks or infection, and for viewing the aorta. TEE can also be used on patients for whom transthoracic echo (through the chest wall) is technically difficult (for example, due to lung disease or narrow rib spacing).

We appreciate that you may be somewhat anxious about this procedure. We therefore invite you to read the information provided below so that you will gain a better understanding of what to expect during a transesophageal echocardiogram. If you have further questions or concerns, please call your physician and/or the Heart Station staff at 847-723-5480.

How do I prepare for a transesophageal echocardiogram?

• When scheduling your test, please advise the staff if you are diabetic, have an artificial valve or have any allergies.
• Do not eat anything for 6 hours before the test or 3 hours after the test.
• You may take your medication with sips of water.
• Do not use nicotine products or consume caffeine on the day of the test.
• Wear a two-piece outfit. You will be given a hospital gown to wear.
• Bring your doctor's order with you.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home, as you will not be able to drive for 24 hours following the procedure.
• Do not plan activities after the test. You should go home and rest.

What will happen on the day of my test?
Before the procedure begins, you will be asked to sign a consent form. There are two risks associated with a transesophageal echocardiogram. One of the risks is possible injury to the esophagus. If you are able to swallow food without difficulty and have no history of problems with your esophagus, this risk of injury is small. If the cardiologist has any problems inserting the probe, the test will be stopped. There is also some risk involved with sedation.

The nurse will ask if you have any allergies, and whether you are allergic to the drugs normally used for sedation (Fentanyl and Versed), or to other drugs used for the procedure. The amount of sedative you are given will be fine-tuned to your individual needs. You may also be given a dose of antibiotics if you have an artificial heart valve.

A cardiologist, nurse and echo technologist will be involved in the procedure. During the test, your blood pressure and heart rate will be monitored. The TEE probe will be inserted for only about 20 minutes. The entire TEE procedure takes about one hour to complete.

Following the procedure
After the procedure, you cannot eat or drink for three hours. You may, however, use throat lozenges should you experience a sore throat. Most patients relate that their anticipation was much worse than the actual test. If you are an outpatient, you cannot resume driving until the following day.

A nurse will call you the day after the procedure to see how you are doing. A written copy of your TEE results will be sent to your attending physician in five to seven work days.