Transesophageal Echocardiogram

What is a transesophageal echocardiogram?

A TEE or transesophageal echocardiogram is an ultrasound study to look at the structures of your heart. It is performed at one of our Piedmont Healthcare facilities by a cardiologist who has received special training. He/she will ask you to swallow a small rubber ultrasound probe. You may have already had a surface echocardiogram at the hospital or your physician's office. A TEE allows the cardiologist to get a clearer picture of the heart structures by looking at the back side of your heart through the esophagus.

An IV is inserted in your hand or arm before the TEE. Our cardiologist will order a small amount of IV sedation to help you relax. You will not be put to sleep. For your comfort, medicine will also be sprayed on the back of your throat to help numb it.