Why is the
doctor performing this procedure?
To visualize a detailed image of the heart’s movement,
valves, and chambers.
What is the procedure?
TEE is an ultrasound study
used to view the heart’s anatomy and function. A transducer
that emits high-frequency sound waves is placed into your
mouth and into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that
connects the mouth to the stomach. This location is closer
to the heart (the esophagus lies directly behind the heart),
and allows a real-time view of the heart that has much less
interference from the chest wall and lungs than routine
echocardiography. The heart is shown on a television screen
and pictures are made on a videotape.
Why is a TEE done?
The TEE is usually performed when there is a need to examine
hard-to-see parts of the heart. It gives images that are
sharp and clear. A TEE might be done to:
-
Assess heart
valve problems.
-
Find blood
clots or masses in the heart.
-
Find holes
between heart chambers which may be present from birth.
-
Check artificial
heart valve function.
-
Detect
infection of heart valves.
-
Diagnose a
tear in the lining of the aorta.
-
Define all of
the cardiac structures in detail when a standard
echocardiogram does not define them clearly.
Preparing
for The Test
A TEE takes about 45 minutes. This includes 30 minutes for
sedatives to take effect and 10-15 minutes for the test
itself.
-
Do not eat food or drink fluids for 6 hours prior to the
test.
-
Have someone drive you to the hospital and take you home.
-
Antibiotics may be given before the TEE to prevent
infections.
During The Test
We will:
-
Start an
intravenous (IV) line for medicine.
-
Numb your
throat with an anesthetic spray.
-
Give you
medicine to help you relax.
-
Give you oxygen through your nose.
-
Monitor your blood pressure, heart rhythm and oxygen
level.
You are then placed on your left side. The doctor inserts a
tube-shaped transducer into your throat. You are asked to
swallow as the tube is placed in your throat and esophagus.
The doctor can view various parts of your heart by moving
the tube.
After Your TEE
You:
- May have a mild sore throat. This is temporary.
- Are monitored for about 15-30 minutes in the TEE lab. You
then return to your hospital room.
- May eat or drink when you are able to swallow and/or have
feeling in the back of your throat (about one hour after the
procedure).
- May not drive a car today.
Your Test Results
The cardiologist who did the test may give you early test
results. Your primary doctor will discuss the test results
during your next office visit.
6/16/2008
|
