Q- How is Trans Esophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) done?


A TEE can be done as an outpatient procedure or as part of a hospital stay. Procedures may differ depending on your situation and the practises of your doctor.

Generally, a TEE follows this process:

  1. You'll be asked to take off any jewellery or other items that might get in the way of the operation. If you have dentures or any other type of mouth prosthesis, they will be removed before the TEE probe is inserted.
  2. If you are asked to remove clothing, you will be given a gown to wear.
  3. You will be asked to empty your bladder before the procedure.
  4. An intravenous (IV) line will be placed in your hand or arm to administer drugs and, if necessary, IV fluids.
  5. You will be lying on your left side on a table or bed. For added support, a pillow or wedge can be placed behind your back.
  6. An electrocardiogram (ECG) monitor will be attached to you, which will record the electrical activity of your heart and monitor it during the surgery using small, adhesive electrodes. During the procedure, your vital signs (heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and oxygen level) will be checked.
  7. The back of the throat will be sprayed with a local anaesthetic spray. This will numb the back of your throat, making it easier to pass the TEE probe.
  8. In your mouth, a bite protector will be inserted.
  9. Before the treatment, you will be given a sedative to help you relax.
  10. If indicated, oxygen will be given through nasal tubes.
  11. The room will be dimmed so that the doctor can view the images on the echocardiography monitor.
  12. The TEE probe will be passed through your mouth and down your throat. You may be asked to swallow to help pass the probe.
  13. Once the probe is in the right place, the images are taken.
  14. After the images are taken, the probe will be removed from your throat.


Watch the video below to learn more about the procedure



Reference- 1. Transesophageal Echocardiogram. (2020). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/transesophageal-echocardiogram

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