This content has been prepared for informational purposes to protect public health, in compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey and medical ethical rules. It does not provide any diagnosis, treatment guarantees, or specific medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is detailed imaging of the heart through the esophagus. It provides higher resolution images than standard echocardiography (TTE).
What is Transesophageal Echocardiography?#
TEE involves imaging the heart from behind by placing a special ultrasound probe into the esophagus. Since the probe is very close to the heart, it provides excellent image quality.
Advantages of TEE:
- Superior image resolution
- Excellent evaluation of left atrium and appendage
- Detailed aortic imaging
- Clear visualization of valve structures
- Gold standard for clot detection
TEE Indications#
Valve Diseases#
- Mitral valve evaluation
- Aortic valve evaluation
- Suspected endocarditis
- Vegetation detection
- Prosthetic valve function
- Paravalvular leak
Thrombus Detection#
- Left atrial appendage clot screening
- Pre-cardioversion evaluation
- Stroke etiology investigation
- Patent foramen ovale (PFO) evaluation
Aortic Diseases#
- Aortic dissection
- Aortic aneurysm
- Atherosclerotic plaque
- Aortic root evaluation
Congenital Heart Diseases#
- Atrial septal defect (ASD)
- Ventricular septal defect (VSD)
- Shunt evaluation
Interventional Procedure Guidance#
- TAVI
- MitraClip
- Left atrial appendage closure
- ASD/PFO closure
- Cardioversion
Pre-TEE Preparation#
General Preparation#
- At least 6 hours fasting
- Information about medication use
- Removal of dentures
- Esophageal disease inquiry
Contraindications#
- Esophageal stricture
- Esophageal varices (bleeding)
- Esophageal tumor
- Severe cervical spine disease
- Uncontrolled airway
How is TEE Performed?#
Procedure Steps#
- IV access: Vein access is opened for sedation
- Throat anesthesia: Local anesthetic spray is applied
- Sedation: Mild sedation is administered
- Probe placement: Probe is slowly advanced into the esophagus
- Imaging: Images are obtained from different angles
- Evaluation: Valves, chambers, and aorta are examined
- Probe removal: Probe is removed at the end of the procedure
Procedure Duration#
- Total duration: 20-40 minutes
- Imaging: 15-30 minutes
Structures Evaluated in TEE#
Left Atrium#
- Size and function
- Spontaneous echo contrast (smoke)
- Appendage clot
- PFO/ASD
Mitral Valve#
- Leaflet morphology
- Prolapse
- Regurgitation jet
- Stenosis evaluation
- Annular calcification
Aortic Valve#
- Valve morphology
- Vegetation
- Abscess
- Regurgitation
Aorta#
- Ascending aorta
- Aortic arch
- Descending aorta
- Atherosclerotic plaque
- Dissection flap
TEE vs TTE Comparison#
| Structure | TTE | TEE |
|---|---|---|
| Left atrial appendage | Poor | Excellent |
| Mitral valve | Good | Excellent |
| Aorta | Limited | Excellent |
| Left ventricle | Excellent | Good |
| Pericardial effusion | Excellent | Good |
Post-TEE Care#
- 1-2 hours monitoring
- No eating or drinking until throat numbness subsides
- No driving the same day (due to sedation)
- Warm liquids for throat discomfort
Complications#
TEE is a safe procedure, serious complications are rare:
- Sore throat (most common)
- Nausea
- Esophageal perforation (very rare)
- Arrhythmia (transient)
Appointment and Contact#
For more information about transesophageal echocardiography and appointments:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)