Transesophageal echocardiogram

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a type of echocardiography that provides detailed images of the heart and its structures. Unlike a standard transthoracic echocardiogram, TEE involves inserting a specialized probe into the esophagus, which is located close to the heart, allowing for clearer and more precise images.

Procedure

The TEE procedure begins with the patient being sedated to ensure comfort. A flexible probe with an ultrasound transducer at its tip is then gently guided down the throat into the esophagus. This position allows the transducer to capture high-resolution images of the heart without interference from the ribs or lungs.

Indications

TEE is particularly useful in diagnosing and evaluating conditions such as:

• Endocarditis
• Congenital heart defects
• Aortic dissection
• Valvular heart disease
• Cardiac masses

Advantages

The proximity of the esophagus to the heart allows TEE to provide superior image quality compared to transthoracic echocardiography. This makes it invaluable in situations where detailed visualization of the heart's structures is necessary.

Images

Diagram of a TEE probe.

File:Transesophageal echocardiography diagram.svg

Illustration showing the position of the TEE probe.

File:ME four chamber (CardioNetworks ECHOpedia).svg

Mid-esophageal four-chamber view.

File:ME AV SAX (CardioNetworks ECHOpedia).svg

Mid-esophageal aortic valve short-axis view.

File:ME two-chamber (CardioNetworks ECHOpedia).svg

Mid-esophageal two-chamber view.

File:ME AV LAX (CardioNetworks ECHOpedia).svg

Mid-esophageal aortic valve long-axis view.

File:UE aortic arch LAX (CardioNetworks ECHOpedia).svg

Upper esophageal aortic arch long-axis view.

Risks and Complications

While TEE is generally safe, it does carry some risks, including:

• Sore throat
• Esophageal perforation
• Bleeding
• Reaction to sedation

Patients are monitored closely during and after the procedure to manage any potential complications.

Related Pages

• Echocardiography
• Cardiac imaging
• Heart disease