Transesophageal Echo (TEE)

The TEE heart test ranks among the most detailed cardiac imaging methods doctors use today. Doctors face a unique challenge when they try to see inside the human heart. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) gives a solution by showing detailed three-dimensional views of the heart's structure and function through ultrasound technology.

This specialised heart test gives doctors a remarkably clear view of the heart and major blood vessels. TEE tests are different from standard approaches because they position the ultrasound probe closer to the heart through the food pipe, which results in exceptionally detailed images that help doctors make accurate diagnoses. Cardiologists rely on TEE to guide treatment during heart attacks, check blood vessel health, and evaluate heart function. This article explains what TEE is, how it is prepared, and its results. 

What is a TEE (Transesophageal Echocardiography)?

The TEE heart test ranks among the most detailed cardiac imaging methods doctors use today. This specialised procedure gives medical professionals a clear view of your heart's structures and shows how well they work.

Transesophageal echocardiography uses a flexible tube with an ultrasound device (transducer). Your doctor guides this tube gently down your throat into the oesophagus. The food pipe's location behind your heart makes it perfect for capturing images. Your heart shows up clearly in TEE because there's no interference from ribs, lungs, or chest wall.

When Should You Get a TEE Test Done?

A TEE test might be right for you if:

• Regular chest ultrasounds don't show enough detail
• You have unexplained heart symptoms like shortness of breath
• Your doctor needs to check your heart for blood clots
• Your heart rhythm needs assessment
• You're getting ready for heart surgery or specific heart procedures

Why Do I Need a TEE Test?

TEE works best to analyse structures at the back of your heart, including the left atrium, atrial appendage, and the wall between heart chambers. Doctors recommend this test to:

• Find blood clots
• Check heart valve problems
• Spot valve infections
• Look at artificial valves
• Find possible stroke causes
• Diagnose infective endocarditis
• Helps track heart surgery results 
• Guide specific cardiac procedures

Procedure for TEE

The whole TEE process usually takes 60-90 minutes. You will get a sedative through an IV to help you relax. The doctor numbs your throat with a spray. You will lie on your left side as the doctor guides the lubricated probe down your throat. A few swallows might help move it along. The transducer takes detailed heart images from different angles once it's in place. The doctor removes the probe after getting all the needed images, and the team watches over you until you are fully awake.

How to Prepare for the TEE Test?

Fasting plays a significant role in TEE preparation. You should stop eating or drinking at least 6-8 hours before your appointment. Take any needed medicines with small sips of water only. 

Someone needs to drive you home since you will receive sedation and won't be able to drive for 18-24 hours afterwards. Remove your jewellery and wear something comfortable. Remember to bring your health card and photo ID to the appointment.

Values of TEE Results

Your heart's chambers, walls, and valves work properly in a normal TEE. The test shows your heart structure's exact shape, size and movement. Blood flow patterns through valves and vessels appear healthy. Your aorta and other major blood vessels show up clearly without any abnormalities.

What Abnormal TEE Results Mean

Abnormal findings appear in:

• Blood clots in heart chambers might appear in abnormal findings. 
• The images could reveal aortic aneurysms - dangerous bulges in your main artery. 
• Heart valve issues like regurgitation (backwards leaking) or stenosis (narrowing) become clear. 
• Unusual tissue around valves might point to infections or tumours. 
• The test can spot congenital heart disease - problems you are born with. 
• Stroke patients benefit, as it helps find potential causes.

Conclusion

TEE is a powerful cardiac imaging tool that captures 3D images of the heart. This captures images by placing the ultrasound probe in the oesophagus right behind the heart. Doctors can then see detailed structures without any interference from ribs or lungs. Doctors usually recommend this imaging when standard ultrasounds don't give enough information, heart symptoms remain unexplained, or before specific cardiac surgeries. 

The idea of having a probe placed down your throat might seem intimidating. However, this valuable test provides information that other methods can't capture. TEE helps medical teams detect serious problems like blood clots, valve issues, or potential stroke sources early enough for treatment to work. Your heart needs the best possible care, and an accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful treatment.

FAQs

1. What conditions can a TEE test detect?

A TEE can reveal many heart issues. These are 

• Blood clots
• Valve problems (regurgitation or stenosis)
• Infections like endocarditis
• Congenital heart defects
• Aortic aneurysms
• Heart tumours
• Cardiomyopathy
• Pericarditis
• Possible stroke sources

2. How should I prepare for a TEE test?

You should not eat or drink for 6-8 hours before your appointment. Take only your essential medications with small sips of water. You must tell your doctor about all medicines, especially blood thinners. Make sure to remove dentures or oral prostheses before the procedure.

3. Why do doctors recommend a TEE test?

We recommend TEE tests when standard echocardiograms don't show enough detail. The test provides clearer views of artificial valves, heart chambers, or possible stroke causes. It helps doctors review unexplained symptoms like shortness of breath or irregular heartbeats.

4. Is a TEE test safe, and what are the risks?

TEE tests are very safe, though some patients have a sore throat afterward. Rare complications include minor bleeding, breathing difficulties, or oesophageal injury.

5. How long does a TEE procedure take?

The whole process usually takes 60-90 minutes, and the actual imaging takes about 15-30 minutes.

6. Does a TEE test require anaesthesia or sedation?

You will get sedation to stay comfortable during your TEE procedure. The medical team gives most patients a mild sedative through an IV that makes them sleepy but aware. They will numb your throat with a spray to prevent gagging. Some rare cases might need general anaesthesia for complete sleep, though recovery takes more time.

7. What should I expect after a TEE test?

Your throat might feel sore for a day or two after the test. The soreness gets better once the throat numbness fades away. Drinking lots of water and using cough drops helps ease any discomfort. Most patients feel tired that day but bounce back to normal the next day. You can usually return to your regular routine within 24 hours.

8. Can I eat or drink before a TEE test?

You need to avoid food and drinks for 6-8 hours before your appointment. You may take tiny sips of water with necessary medications, but nothing else.

9. Who should not undergo a TEE test?

TEE isn't suitable for people who have severe oesophageal disease, tears, tumours, strictures, or recent oesophageal surgery. Patients with bleeding disorders need special medical evaluation.

10. When and how will I receive my TEE test reports?

Your test results should be ready in 2-3 business days. The doctor will explain all findings during your follow-up visit.