Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) Test for Heart

Introduction

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a specialized type of ultrasound used to get detailed images of the heart. Unlike standard transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), where an ultrasound probe is placed on the chest, TEE involves inserting a probe into the esophagus. Because the esophagus is close to the heart, this test provides clearer and more detailed images of heart structures.

Indications for TEE

TEE is recommended in cases where precise heart imaging is required, including: - Evaluating heart valve diseases (such as mitral or aortic valve abnormalities) - Detecting blood clots (thrombi) in conditions like atrial fibrillation - Assessing endocarditis (infection of heart valves) - Examining congenital heart defects - Checking for aortic dissection or aneurysm

Procedure and What to Expect

  1. Preparation: You will be asked to avoid eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours before the test.
  2. Sedation: A mild sedative is given to help you relax. The throat is numbed with a local anesthetic spray.
  3. Insertion of the Probe: A flexible ultrasound probe is carefully inserted into the esophagus.
  4. Imaging: The ultrasound produces highly detailed images of the heart, which help in diagnosis.
  5. Recovery: After the test, you may feel mild throat discomfort for a few hours. You should not eat or drink until the effect of the anesthetic wears off.

Risks and Considerations

Though TEE is generally safe, potential risks include: - Mild throat discomfort or irritation - Rare risk of esophageal injury or bleeding - Temporary irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) - Aspiration risk if sedation is too deep

Conclusion

TEE is an advanced diagnostic tool that provides crucial information about heart conditions when standard echocardiography is insufficient. Your doctor will recommend it if they need a clearer image of your heart structures and function.

Source recommendations

1. American Society of Echocardiography Guidelines

  1. https://www.asecho.org/guidelines-search/
  2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30282592/
  3. https://www.asecho.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Guidelines-for-Performing-a-Comprehensive-Transthoracic-Echocardiographic-Examination-in-Adults.pdf
  4. https://www.onlinejase.com/content/aseguidelines
  5. https://www.asecho.org/guideline/

2. European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging Guidelines

  1. https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Scientific-Documents/Recommendations-and-position-papers
  2. https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/16/1/12/2403250
  3. https://www.escardio.org/Sub-specialty-communities/European-Association-of-Cardiovascular-Imaging-(EACVI)
  4. https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/20/12/1321/5572609
  5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29045589/

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