Cardiovascular Ultrasound Department

Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a test done to record images of your heart with a probe inside your esophagus. These images help your healthcare provider find and treat problems such as infection, disease, or defects in your heart’s function, walls or valves. This test may be done when a chest echocardiogram (transthoracic) does not give your provider enough information.

Before your test

  • Arrive 60 minutes prior to your scheduled time to allow for checking in.
  • Tell your provider about all the medicines you take. Ask if it’s OK to take them before the test.
  • Don’t eat or drink 8 hours before the test. This includes water.
  • Tell your healthcare provider if you have any of the following issues:
    • any allergies to medicines
    • ulcers
    • a hiatal hernia
    • problems swallowing
    • a history of narrowing of the esophagus, or any other previous gastrointestinal problems. 
    • dental implants or dentures that should be removed before the test.
  • Arrange to have someone 18 years of age or older drive you home after the exam.

During your TEE

  • No kids or family will be allowed in the room during the procedure.
  • When you arrive for your TEE, you will change into a hospital gown.
  • Once you arrive in the testing room, the RN will place an IV and draw labs, if ordered. 
  • The provider may spray a numbing medicine in your throat. You may be given a medicine through an IV in your arm to help you relax.
  • You may place you on oxygen.
  • You will be positioned on your left side.
  • The provider will gently inserts the small, lubricated probe into your mouth. As you swallow, the provider will slowly guide the tube into your esophagus.
  • You may feel the probe moving, but it shouldn’t hurt or interfere with your breathing.
  • A nurse will monitor heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing. The test usually takes 20 to 40 minutes.
  • The nurse or assistant will suction any saliva out of your mouth.  This is similar to when you visit the dentist. 

After the test

  • Once your test is completed, you will discharged to home.  You must have someone 18 years or older to drive you home.
  • Do not drive a car or run heavy machinery for at least 24 hours after getting sedation. After 24 hours you can return to normal activity unless your healthcare provider tells you otherwise.
  • You can eat and drink again when your throat is no longer numb.
  • Notify your  healthcare provider if you:
    • Experience increase in pain
    • cough up or vomit blood
    • have trouble swallowing