Transesophageal Echocardiogram

In a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), images of your heart are recorded from inside your esophagus (food pipe). Seeing the heart from inside the body provides clearer pictures of conditions such as infection, disease or defects in the heart.

The procedure takes approximately 20 to 40 minutes.

• You may receive a mild sedative to help you relax
• Your throat will be numbed with an anesthetic spray; if you wear dentures you will need to remove the
• You may also be given oxygen if needed
• While you lie on your left side, the doctor gently guides a flexible, lubricated tube into your esophagus
• At the tip of the tube is a small probe producing sound waves that create images
• During the test, your breathing, heart rate and blood pressure will be monitored

After the procedure

• You will be in recovery for approximately one hour
• If you were given a sedative someone will need to drive you home; also, don't drive for at least 12 hours
• Avoid eating and drinking until the numbness in your throat wears off
• If your throat is sore, soothe it with cold drinks and lozenges
• Call your physician immediately if signs of bleeding, internal pain or a stiff neck develop