Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

What is a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)?

A TEE is a diagnostic imaging tool that uses ultrasound imaging to get detailed images of your heart. To get these images, the team at Cary Cardiology, P.A., uses an endoscope and a special ultrasound tool that goes into your esophagus. 

Why would I need a TEE?

Your Cary Cardiology, P.A., provider explains why you would need a TEE during a consultation. Your esophagus is closer to the upper chambers of your heart, and the TEE provides clearer images of the structure and function of your heart than an echocardiogram.

The echocardiogram is a cardiac imaging test that involves running an ultrasound wand over your chest to get pictures of your heart. 

Your provider may recommend the TEE if results from your echocardiogram are inconclusive or the structures are hard to see.

They may also perform this test to look for certain types of heart disease, such as:

• Valvular heart disease
• Myocardial disease
• Pericardial disease
• Endocarditis
• Cardiac masses

The TEE also allows them to closely examine the upper chambers of the heart in greater detail and look for abnormalities.

How do I prepare for a TEE?

The team at Cary Cardiology, P.A., gives you specific instructions on how to prepare for your TEE at your consultation. Typically, you’ll need to stop eating at least six hours before your test and wear comfortable clothing.

The team also requests you arrange to have someone drive you home after.

What happens during a TEE?

After you change into the exam gown, your provider places electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart’s electrical activity with an electrocardiogram (EKG). They also place a blood pressure cuff around your arm to monitor your blood pressure.

They’ll provide you with a solution to numb your throat and place an intravenous (IV) line in your arm to administer a sedative that helps you relax. Your provider then inserts the endoscope into your mouth and advances it to your esophagus. They capture pictures of your heart and may perform a Doppler ultrasound to monitor the flow of blood through your heart.

A TEE takes about 90 minutes. You need to take it easy the rest of the day but can resume your usual activities the day after your procedure.

To find out why you're having heart problems and make sure you get any heart treatment you need, contact Cary Cardiology, P.A., for more information on TEE. Call their office or book an appointment online today.