Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

This test uses sound waves to see images of the heart muscle, valves and function of the heart. A special instrument called a flexible transducer is passed through your mouth and throat (esophagus) to your stomach. The transducer picks up heart sound waves and uses them to project a picture of the heart on a screen. A recording is made for the cardiologist to review at a later time.

The test itself will take approximately 30 minutes, but since medications are given to ensure your comfort, you should expect your visit to last three to four hours.

Preparation

To ensure an accurate and safe test, follow all instructions given by your doctor, including:

1. Do not eat or drink for six (6) hours prior to the test. Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, take your medications as you normally do with just a sip of water.
2. You must make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the test.
3. Wear comfortable clothing.

What happens during the test?

You will be asked to replace your shirt or blouse with a hospital gown. An intravenous (IV) will be started to administer medication to help you relax and ensure your comfort. The medication will not cause you to sleep, but may make you forget portions of the test. A nurse will monitor your blood pressure, heart rate and breathing during the test.

For comfort, your throat will be sprayed with another medication to numb portions of your esophagus. This will help in swallowing the flexible transducer.

You should not feel pain during the test - but may experience some very mild discomfort with the initial swallowing of the flexible transducer. You will be given instructions on the initial swallow in order to ensure proper flexible transducer placement.

When the test is complete

The medication you receive will make you drowsy. Do not drive for the remainder of the day after the test. You must have another person drive you home.

Because the back of your throat will be numb, you should not eat or drink until the numbness wears off. Try to swallow a small amount of water one hour after the test. If you can swallow comfortably, you can return to your regular diet and medications.

At home

1. Rest the remainder of the day. Overactivity may cause nausea and dizziness.
2. Do not drive or operate machinery.
3. You may follow your normal diet. Drink plenty of fluids. Do not drink alcoholic beverages for 24 hours.
4. Use throat lozenges or ice chips if you experience a mild sore throat.
5. Call your primary doctor or our department if you have questions, concerns or experience any of the following:
   • Increased pain or difficulty when swallowing
   • Stomach or abdominal pain
   • Temperature above 99 degrees

Test results

The cardiologist will study and interpret the images. Your primary doctor’s office will be given the test results and contact you. If you do not hear from them within two (2) business days, please contact them directly.