Depending on the type of exam, you may be instructed to lie down or sit upright on an examining table. The sonographer will apply gel on your skin and press the transducer firmly against your body, moving it until the desired images are captured.
Transesophageal echo involves the passage of a very small tube down the food pipe or esophagus. Because the esophagus lies in close proximity (behind) the heart, outstanding images of the heart can be obtained. To reduce the amount of discomfort that a patient might have from swallowing the probe, patients are often given oral sprays of novocaine-like medicine, as well as intravenous medicine to relax them and reduce any discomfort.
The sonographer sees the images on the monitor immediately. Often the patient is able to see them, as well. The examination usually takes approximately 30 minutes.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
Your health care provider may choose to perform a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE):
- If the regular or transthoracic echocardiogram is unclear due to a barrel chest, lung disease, or obesity
- If a much clearer picture is needed of a certain area
With TEE, the back of your throat is numbed and a scope is inserted down your throat. On the end of the scope is an ultrasonic device that an experienced technician will guide down to the lower part of the esophagus. It is used to obtain a more clear two-dimensional echocardiogram of your heart.
