Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) - esophageal echocardiography

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) is a semi-invasive heart examination where an echocardiographic probe is inserted into the esophagus and stomach. It offers significantly higher resolution than conventional echocardiography due to the close proximity of the probe to the cardiac structures.

Indications:

- In patients where standard transthoracic echocardiography is not feasible (e.g., obesity, emphysema).

- To clarify valve anatomy and assess the significance of valve defects.

- In cases of fevers of unclear origin to exclude infective endocarditis.

- In patients with atrial fibrillation before planned cardioversion to exclude left atrial or left atrial appendage thrombus.

- To exclude intracardiac shunts (atrial or ventricular septal defects).

- Visualization of the aortic arch and descending aorta to exclude aortic dissection, atherosclerotic plaques, or aortic coarctation.

- In younger patients under 70 years old after a stroke to exclude a cardiac (cardioembolic) cause – i.e., to exclude intracardiac shunts, valve pathologies, thrombi in cardiac chambers and left atrial appendage, and aortic atherosclerotic plaques with embolic potential.

Basic Information:

- The examination is performed after a minimum 6-hour fast under local anesthesia with Xylocaine.

- Each patient has an IV cannula for infusion.

- Intravenous sedation is administered if the patient tolerates the probe insertion poorly.

- Glucose solution may be administered intravenously in some patients to exclude intracardiac shunts.

- Before the examination, the patient is clinically assessed including ECG and blood pressure measurement.

- The examination is performed under continuous ECG monitoring.

- Contraindications include allergies to local anesthetics, esophageal pathology, severe ventilation disorder, and severe coagulopathy.

Patient Preparation Before the Examination:

- Arrive 15 minutes early for the examination.

- Do not drive or use any other form of transportation.

- Must have a companion.

- Refrain from eating, drinking, chewing, or taking medications for 6 hours before the examination.

doc. MUDr. Vilém Danzig, Ph.D.
Affidea Praha 4 - Chodov
T: 267 090 811
Booking an appointment directly with the doctore Tuesday - Friday
The examination takes place on Friday as agreed with the doctor.