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We provide our users the most up-to-date and accurate information on the treatment and prevention of cardio pathologies in accordance with current American and European clinical guidelines.
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis and treatment.
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
- Preparation: You will be asked to avoid eating or drinking for at least 6-8 hours before the test.
- Sedation: A mild sedative is given to help you relax. The throat is numbed with a local anesthetic spray.
- Insertion of the Probe: A flexible ultrasound probe is carefully inserted into the esophagus.
- Imaging: The ultrasound produces highly detailed images of the heart, which help in diagnosis.
- 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
- https://www.asecho.org/guidelines-search/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30282592/
- https://www.asecho.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/Guidelines-for-Performing-a-Comprehensive-Transthoracic-Echocardiographic-Examination-in-Adults.pdf
- https://www.onlinejase.com/content/aseguidelines
- https://www.asecho.org/guideline/
2. European Association of Cardiovascular Imaging Guidelines
- https://www.escardio.org/Guidelines/Scientific-Documents/Recommendations-and-position-papers
- https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/16/1/12/2403250
- https://www.escardio.org/Sub-specialty-communities/European-Association-of-Cardiovascular-Imaging-(EACVI)
- https://academic.oup.com/ehjcimaging/article/20/12/1321/5572609
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29045589/
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If you or your loved ones experience any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor in time. Remember that self-medication can be dangerous, and timely diagnosis will preserve the quality and life expectancy.
The heart is an organ that does not know how to "keep silent" if something goes wrong. Chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, dizziness, and rhythm disturbances are the symptoms that require our attention. The best prevention of heart disease is careful attention to your health, regular checkups with a doctor, and a healthy lifestyle. Take care of your heart, and it will serve you for many years!
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