Ultrasound examination of your heart via the esophagus (TEE)

What is a TEE?

A TEE (TransEsophageal Echocardiography) is an ultrasound examination of your heart performed via the esophagus. This examination lets us obtain very good images of your heart and your cardiac valves. A TEE is a very efficient way to rule out the presence of blood clots in the heart – especially in the left atrium.

The examination is performed when an external ultrasound examination is insufficient. It is performed using a thin, flexible probe.

The day of examination

You are not allowed to eat for a minimum of six hours prior to your arrival time. However, you are permitted to take drinks (avoid any dairy products) until two hours prior to your time of arrival.

You must take your usual morning medication.

Feel free to bring a family member.

The examination is performed in a ward with a cardiac specialist, an anaesthesilogist and a nurse present.

A line will be inserted into a vein in your hand.

The specialist will meat with you and ask supplementary questions about your symptoms, any previous and present treatment. Remember to bring a list of your medication.

To avoid any discomfort during the examination, you will be administered a brief general anaesthesia.

The probe will be led into your oesophagus and images will be taken of your heart.

You will recover quite quickly and will then be offered something to eat and drink.

You may be discharged after 1-2 hours, once you are comfortable.

You may receive the result of the examination immediately and, prior to discharge, the next steps to be taken will be agreed.

Due to the sedation, you are not permitted to drive a vehicle nor be on your own for the next 24 hours.