Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)

The health and function of the heart play a crucial role in the quality of human life. With the continuous advancement of medicine, the methods for assessing and diagnosing the condition of the heart are becoming increasingly sophisticated. One of the most widespread and reliable procedures is echocardiography, which aids in the detailed understanding of the heart and large vessels’ condition.

Types of Echocardiography

There are two main types of echocardiography: transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TTE is the most common and widely used method, where the examination is performed through the chest. This non-invasive procedure allows for detailed observation of the heart and large vessels without requiring the patient to undergo any invasive interventions.

During TTE, the patient lies on their left side while the doctor uses an ultrasound transducer on the chest. Continuous ECG monitoring occurs during the procedure, helping to track the heart’s electrical activity. This method enables a detailed examination of the heart chambers, heart valves, and surrounding vessels, assisting the cardiologist in making a diagnosis.

In contrast, TEE is a more specialized procedure performed through the esophagus. This method is typically used when TTE does not provide sufficient information, such as in cases of poor-quality images. TEE allows for a more detailed examination of the heart’s posterior structures and the thoracic aorta, as the esophagus is anatomically close to the heart. This technique can be particularly useful during heart surgeries, where accurate diagnosis and evaluation of surgical outcomes are essential.

The Procedure of Transesophageal Echocardiography

The preparation for transesophageal echocardiography is subject to strict fasting rules. Patients should not consume food for at least four hours before the examination to ensure the stomach is clear. During the procedure, the patient receives local anesthesia and must swallow a thin probe that will enter the esophagus. The placement of the probe is done with the use of sedative medication, so the patient does not experience pain, only some discomfort.

The examination lasts approximately 15-30 minutes, and the cardiologist immediately summarizes the findings after the procedure, including the measured data and its interpretation. The patient can consume food and drink two hours after the examination; however, driving is only permitted after 12 hours due to the effects of the sedative medication.

During the TEE examination, the cardiologist gains a detailed view of the heart’s condition, including the movement of the heart chambers, the state of the heart valves, and blood flow. This information aids in diagnosing various heart diseases, such as valve problems, myocardial changes, and blood clots.

Possible Risks and Side Effects

Although transesophageal echocardiography is generally a safe procedure, like all medical interventions, it carries some risks. Side effects during the examination may include a sore throat, which can arise from potential irritation of the vocal cords. Additionally, since TEE is a semi-invasive procedure, there is a very rare risk of esophageal perforation or gastrointestinal bleeding.

It is important for the patient to be informed about the examination process and the possible risks to arrive prepared for the procedure. The cardiologist provides detailed information about the examination, its benefits, and potential drawbacks, allowing the patient to make an informed decision.

Overall, whether TTE or TEE, echocardiography is an extremely useful tool in diagnosing and treating heart diseases. Proper information and preparation ensure that patients receive the best possible care.