Home > Cardiovascular Institute > Heart Valve Disease

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasounds) to look at the structures of the heart. Pictures are taken by a probe inserted into the esophagus, the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach. Since the probe sits directly behind the heart, it allows certain parts of the heart to be seen more clearly than with a standard echocardiogram.

A TEE takes approximately one and a half hours. An additional hour is needed if an IV (into the vein) antibiotic is ordered.

There are no major risks with TEE. If you are pregnant, having a TEE will not affect your unborn baby.

Before the test

  • Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before the test.
  • Plan to have a responsible adult take you home after the test.

Day of the test

Arriving at the Hospital
On the day of the test, check in at the 8th floor reception desk (Galter Pavilion, 201 E. Huron St.) 30 minutes before your appointment. Parking is available.

Preparing for the test

  • If you have a heart condition that requires protection from bacterial infections, an antibiotic may be given through an IV (into the vein) line.
  • Dentures and partials must be removed just before the test. Tell your doctor if you have any loose teeth.

You will receive a mild sedative through the IV to relax you before the probe is placed.

During the test

  • During the test, you will lie on your left side.
  • A numbing medicine will be sprayed on the back of your throat so you will not feel the probe being placed. The probe will be inserted about eight to 12 inches into the esophagus. Pictures of the heart and blood flow from the heart's chambers will be taken.
  • You may feel the need to hiccup, cough or vomit, but you should have no other uncomfortable feelings. These feelings are lessened by a sedative and numbing medicine.
  • Once the pictures have been taken, the probe will be removed.

After the Test

  • If you have been given a mild sedative, you will be monitored until the sedative wears off (approximately one hour). You will not be able to eat or drink anything for about two hours.
  • If needed, you will be given an antibiotic pill to take six hours after the test.

IMPORTANT: Outpatients must have a responsible adult take them home after the test.

Contact
Cardiology Graphics Laboratory
(312) 926-7483


Review Date: 07/02