An echocardiogram (echo) uses high-frequency sound waves to create a graphic outline of the heart’s movement.
A transesophageal echo (TEE) test is a type of echo test that captures images closer to your heart. This is done by passing an ultrasound transducer down your esophagus ("food pipe") through an endoscope. An endoscope is a long, thin, flexible tube that is about ½ inch in diameter.
A TEE shows the heart valves and chambers without the ribs or lungs blocking the view. A TEE is often used when your doctor is not able to get enough information from a standard echo test.
Sometimes, the TEE is combined with Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler to look at the way blood flows across your heart valves.
Why do I need a TEE?
A TEE is used to:
- Check the overall function of your heart valves and chambers.
- Check for many types of heart disease, such as valve disease, myocardial disease, pericardial disease, infective endocarditis, cardiac masses and congenital heart disease.
- Evlauate the effectiveness of valve surgery.
- Evaluate abnormalities of the left atrium.
Before the test
If you need a TEE, please tell your doctor if you have any problems with your esophagus, such as a hiatal hernia, problems swallowing, sleep apnea, or IV drug use. It is important to tell your doctor if you take medication to help you sleep, relieve anxiety, and/or narcotic pain medication.
You MUST have a responsible adult with you to drive you home after you test and stay with you afterwards. We will give you medication to help you relax during the test, and you will not be able to drive for 24 hours. If you do not have someone to accompany you, your procedure may be cancelled.
Can I eat or drink or take medications on the day of the test?
- DO NOT eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before the test.
- Take all medications at the usual times.
- If you take medication for diabetes, ask your doctor for special directions for your test day.
- If you need to take medication before the test, take it only with a small sip of water.
Bring someone with you to the test
You MUST have someone with you to drive you home and stay with you for the rest of the day. You will be sedated for this test, so you will NOT be able to drive yourself home or allowed to leave the procedure area alone. If you do not have someone with you, your test may be cancelled.
What should I wear on the day of the test?
You may wear anything you like. You will change into a hospital gown before the test. Please do not bring valuables. You will store your belongings in a locker during the test.
What happens during the test?
- Before the test, your healthcare provider will explain the procedure in detail, including possible complications and side effects. You will have the opportunity to ask questions.
- If you agree to have the test, you will sign a consent form to state that you understand the risks and benefits and wish to proceed.
- Your test will take place in the Echo Lab located at J1-5. The testing area is supervised by a physician.
- You will change into a hospital gown.
- The nurse will place electrodes (small, flat, sticky patches) on your chest. The electrodes are attached to an electrocardiograph (EKG) monitor that charts your heart’s electrical activity.
- A blood pressure cuff will be placed on your arm to monitor your blood pressure.
- A small clip, attached to a pulse oximeter, will be placed on your finger to monitor the oxygen level of your blood.
- You will gargle with a solution to numb your throat. The nurse will spray a pain-relieving medication at the back of your throat.
- The nurse will give you medications through your IV to help you relax. You may feel drowsy.
- You will lie on your left side on an exam table.
- A dental suction tip will be placed in your mouth to remove any secretions.
- The doctor will insert a thin, lubricated endoscope into your mouth, down your throat and into your esophagus. This part of the test lasts a few seconds and may be uncomfortable. The endoscope does not interfere with your breathing. You may be asked to swallow at certain times to help move the endoscope in place.
- Once the probe is in position, pictures of the heart are taken from various angles (you will not feel this part of the test).
- Your heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen level of your blood will be closely monitored during and immediately after the exam.
How will I feel during the test?
Because of the sedative, you may not be entirely awake for the test. We will keep you as comfortable as possible. Tell the healthcare team if you feel uncomfortable at any time. You may feel a temporary soreness or numbness in your throat after the test.
How long does the test take?
The test will take about 90 minutes. After you recover from the sedation, you may go home or go to your other scheduled appointments. Remember, you CANNOT drive yourself home after the test or leave the test area without someone with you.
Can I eat after the test?
Wait at least one hour after the test (or until the numbness in your throat is gone) before you eat or drink. Start by drinking a cool liquid. If you don’t have any problems drinking cool liquids, you can eat and drink as you normally would.
How do I get the results of my test?
After a cardiologist has reviewed your test, the results will be entered into your electronic medical record. Your physician will have access to the results and will discuss them with you.
