What is a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) scan?
It is a modern and precise ultrasound scan of the heart and the main blood vessels that drain from it, providing detailed information about the anatomy, structure and function of the heart.
The TEE is performed with a special probe that is inserted into the oesophagus during the examination. This probe positioning results in a better ultrasound image quality and allows a better assessment of structures that are difficult to visualise on standard echocardiography.
TEE is performed under local anaesthesia by blowing a lidocaine spray into the neck a few minutes before the probe is inserted. If necessary, a sedative may be injected into the patient’s vein to relieve tension and make the examination more tolerable. The examination is performed with the patient in the supine position, most often on the left side. The patient must swallow the probe following the instructions given by the doctor and nurse.
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How to prepare for a transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) scan?
01
Before the examination
02
After the examination
