A standard echo is performed by passing an
ultrasound probe over your heart from outside
the body. By using ultrasound waves, which are not felt and are
harmless, a motion picture is made of your heart as it beats in
your chest. This motion picture is recorded on videotape and studied
by a cardiologist who makes a report for your physician.
A TEE provides clearer and more detailed pictures
than a standard echo because the ultrasound probe is moved inside
your body. Since your esophagus (the passageway from your mouth
to your stomach) passes very close to your heart, placing the
ultrasound probe down the esophagus will give a much better and
more detailed picture of your heart.
A TEE can tell many important things about
your heart including its size, how strongly it pumps blood, and
how well the valves are working. It is also very useful for identifying
many of the common problems that can occur with the heart. This
makes it a very useful test for providing information about your
heart's overall health.
Your TEE will be performed by a cardiologist
who has special expertise in this procedure. The cardiologist
will be assisted by a special ultrasound technician called a sonographer.
A nurse will also be present to administer medications, monitor
your blood pressure and pulse, and supervise the recovery process.
Preparation
You will be told when and where to report
for your test. In preparation, you will need to:
• not eat or drink for at least
six hours before the test.
• if you're an outpatient, have
someone drive you to and from your test.
NOTE: If you arrive without a driver, your
test will be rescheduled. If you wear dentures, partial plates,
etc., you'll need to remove them before the test. Be sure to
tell your physician if you have problems swallowing or have
any conditions involving your esophagus or stomach (such as
a hiatal hernia).
You'll be asked to put on a hospital gown
and lie down on a bed or table. An intravenous (IV) catheter will
be inserted in your hand or arm. This will be used to give you
fluid and medications. Your throat will be sprayed with an anesthetic
(numbing medication) and you will be given some medication through
your IV to help you relax and fall lightly asleep.
Procedure
You'll be sedated but conscious during this
procedure so that you can respond to the physician's
instructions. You'll be asked to lie on your left side, and the
physician will gently insert a lubricated tube into your mouth
and guide it down your throat into place. You will be asked to
swallow, as this will help guide the tube. Although you may feel
the tube moving, it shouldn't be painful or interfere with your
breathing. Occasionally, an assistant may use suctioning to help
clear the secretions from your mouth and throat. Most patients
report no discomfort during the procedure, which takes about 30
minutes to complete. You should, however, allow one to two hours
from arrival to departure.
Your Recovery
After your TEE, your throat may be slightly
sore or scratchy. Cold drinks or lozenges will help to relieve
these common symptoms; however, you shouldn't eat or drink anything
until your throat is no longer numb (usually about 2 hours). If
you're an outpatient and have no unusual symptoms, you will be
released in about 30 minutes. If you were given a sedative during
the procedure, you shouldn't drive for at least 12 hours.
A cardiologist will review the TEE videotape
and send a report to your physician who will likely contact you
to discuss the results. If you have any unusual symptoms, such
as pain or bleeding, be sure to call your physician immediately.
Your Good Health
Regardless of the results of your study and
the course of treatment your physician recommends, you play an
important role in staying healthy. Be sure to keep all appointments
for exams and follow-up tests. Follow your instructions, don't
hesitate to talk about your concerns, and immediately report any
new symptoms.
As always, if you have any questions about
your health, be sure to ask your physician.
If you are a Munson Healthcare patient and have a compliment,
concern, or complaint, please contact one of our Patient
Liaisons.
