Contents
What is the purpose of a transesophageal echocardiogram?
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) uses echocardiography to assess the structure and function of the heart. During the procedure, a transducer (like a microphone) sends out ultrasonic sound waves.
Are you put to sleep for a transesophageal echocardiogram?
After changing into a hospital gown, you’ll meet your nurse. They’ll place an intravenous (IV) catheter into one of your veins, usually in your hand or arm. The IV will be used to give you anesthesia (medication to make you sleep) during your procedure.
What happens during a transesophageal echocardiogram?
A transesophageal echo (TEE) test is a type of echo that uses a long, thin, tube (endoscope) to guide the ultrasound transducer down the esophagus (“food pipe” that goes from the mouth to the stomach). This lets the doctor see pictures of the heart without the ribs or lungs getting in the way.
What happens if my echocardiogram is abnormal?
Symptoms include bulging neck veins, swelling in the arms, nausea, and fainting. Abnormal echocardiogram results help doctors determine if further testing is necessary or if you need to be placed on a treatment plan. When it comes to your heart, there is no room for taking risks.
How long does a transesophageal echocardiogram take?
How long does the test take? The test will take about 90 minutes. Afterwards, you may need more tests.
What do you need to know about transesophageal echocardiogram?
Transesophageal echocardiography may be done to evaluate signs and symptoms that may suggest: Atherosclerosis. This is a gradual clogging of the arteries by fatty materials and other substances in the blood. Cardiomyopathy. This is an enlargement of the heart due to thickening or weakening of the heart muscle. Congenital heart disease.
How is an echocardiogram used to diagnose heart disease?
An echocardiogram is one of the most common diagnostic tools cardiologists use to visualize the heart, aorta, and other blood vessels. An echocardiogram is essentially a Doppler ultrasound tool. The device emits sound waves, which bounce off the heart’s structures, creating an image of the heart and/or blood vessels under examination.
When to use an echocardiogram instead of a TTE?
The sonographer may inject a contrast dye to improve visualization. If this does not work, then a transesophageal echocardiogram may be necessary (see below). Transesophageal echocardiograms are much less common than TTEs. They are typically used when good visualization cannot be obtained via TTE.
How is the M-mode echocardiogram used in medicine?
M-mode echo is useful for measuring heart structures, such as the heart’s pumping chambers, the size of the heart itself, and the thickness of the heart walls. Doppler echocardiography. This Doppler technique is used to assess blood flow through the heart’s chambers and valves.