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When your doctor recommends a TEE test (transesophageal echocardiogram), it’s natural to have questions about how to prepare and what the process involves.
While the term may sound technical, this specialized heart diagnostic test is a common and safe way to get detailed insights about your heart. Proper preparation and understanding of the testing process can help ease any nervousness you may have and make your experience stress-free.
Let’s walk you through the steps of preparation, what happens during the procedure, and how to care for yourself afterward.
Before the procedure, your provider will explain the process in detail, address any questions you may have, and provide detailed instructions to follow before a TEE.
You will be advised to avoid eating or drinking for 6-8 hours before your test. This fasting period is crucial because sedation is used during the procedure, and an empty stomach reduces the risk of complications when using sedation. Be sure to clarify the exact timing with your doctor.
It is important to be upfront about your medical background. If you are pregnant, suspect you might be, or have allergies to medications, anesthesia, or latex, inform your provider beforehand. In some cases, your doctor might request blood tests to check clotting or other factors to ensure your safety during the procedure.
Certain medications, like blood thinners or diabetes medication, or supplements, might need to be adjusted before your test. Have a detailed conversation with your provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking. They will guide you on what medications you may need to skip or adjust before the procedure.
Since you will be sedated during the TEE test, you won’t be able to drive yourself home immediately afterward. Make sure to have a friend or family member assist you and get you home safely.
Wear loose-fitting clothes that allow for comfort during the procedure. Avoid wearing jewelry, tight accessories, or makeup, as they can interfere with medical equipment.
Your doctor may provide additional instructions tailored to your specific condition and needs. Be sure to follow these closely and ask questions if anything is unclear.
The TEE test involves sedation through local anesthesia or general anesthesia, depending on your case.
A TEE test may be done on an outpatient procedure or as part of your stay in a hospital, depending on your condition. The exact steps for the procedure may vary depending on your condition and your doctor’s practice.
However, here’s what you can expect during the procedure.
Before the test begins, you’ll be connected to monitoring equipment to track your blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing. To keep you comfortable and minimize any gag reflex, your doctor will spray a numbing agent to the back of your throat. A small mouthguard will be placed to protect your teeth and guide the probe during the test.
If you wear dentures or have any false teeth, they will need to be removed at this stage.
Sedation plays a key role in ensuring the procedure is as comfortable as possible. An anesthesiologist will administer sedatives or general anesthesia through an IV to help you relax or fall asleep. Small electrodes will also be placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm during the procedure.
Once you’re fully relaxed, your doctor will carefully guide a thin, flexible probe into your mouth and down your esophagus (food pipe). The probe emits high-frequency sound waves to create detailed, real-time images of your heart and surrounding blood vessels.
The doctor may adjust the probe slightly to get the clearest possible views of your heart’s structure and blood flow. Although the imaging itself takes only about 15 minutes, the team monitors you closely throughout the process to ensure your safety and comfort.
When the imaging is complete, the medical team will remove the probe, electrodes, and IV. You’ll then be moved to a recovery room, where your vitals will be closely monitored as the sedation wears off. Once you’re fully awake and stable, you’ll be discharged.
It is common to worry about gagging or discomfort when a probe is sent down your throat. However, the numbing agent and sedation significantly reduce this reflex, making the experience manageable.
The TEE test procedure itself is relatively short, often only 15 minutes of imaging. However, the entire process, including preparation and recovery, can take about 60-90 minutes.
It is common to feel a bit groggy or tired immediately after the test due to the sedative. You might also notice a sore throat or mild discomfort, which is completely normal. These symptoms usually ease within a day or two.
Some patients may experience temporary hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, but these sensations typically fade after a few hours. If you notice severe throat pain, persistent difficulty swallowing, or other unusual symptoms, please contact your provider immediately.
Avoid any strenuous activities or important tasks until you feel back to normal. Most patients feel fully recovered by the following day. Your doctor will go over the results of your transesophageal echocardiogram during a follow-up appointment.
A TEE test can effectively diagnose various cardiac issues and help guide your treatment plan. Proper preparation and understanding of the process of a TEE test can ensure a comfortable and confident experience.
At Corrielus Cardiology in Philadelphia, PA, we specialize in advanced heart diagnostics like the TEE test to provide our patients with accurate, personalized care.
If you have questions about the TEE test or want to discuss your heart health, we’re just a call away. To schedule a cardiology consultation with Corrielus Cardiology, please call 215-874-3836 or book an appointment online.
No, the test itself is generally not painful. You will be given sedation and local anesthesia to numb your throat to minimize discomfort during the test. Some people may experience mild discomfort or a sore throat afterward, but this typically resolves within a few hours or by the following day.
The whole TEE test process from preparation to imaging usually takes between 60 to 90 minutes. You may have to spend a little extra time in the recovery area afterward while the sedative wears off.
No, you must fast for 6-8 hours before the test. This is to ensure your stomach is empty and to avoid complications during sedation.
The TEE test is considered very safe. However, as with any medical procedure, there are small risks, such as sore throat, gagging, or very rarely, injury to the esophagus. These risks are minimized by following the doctor’s instructions carefully.
It’s best to take it easy for the rest of the day after the TEE test. Avoid any strenuous activity, and don’t drive until the effects of the sedation have worn off completely.
Do not eat or drink anything for at least one to one and a half hours before consuming anything until the numbness in your throat wears off. Attempting to eat or drink too soon could cause choking.
