Transesophageal Echocardiogram Services - Advanced Cardiovascular Care Center

Transesophageal ECHO is an alternative way to perform an echocardiogram. A specialized probe containing an ultrasound transducer at its tip is passed into the patient's esophagus this allows image and Doppler evaluation which can be recorded. This is known as a transesophageal echocardiogram, or TOE (TEE in the US). Transesophageal echocardiograms are most often utilized when transthoracic images are sub optimal and when a more clear and precise image is needed for assessment. This test is performed in the presence of a cardiologist, registered nurse, and ultrasound technician. Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) is a way of performing an echocardiogram in which the echo transducer is placed in the esophagus or food pipe of the patient to get a much clearer image of the heart compared to the standard echo. Transesophageal Echo (TEE) gives clear images of the back structures of the heart, such as the left atrium, which may not be seen as well by a standard echo taken from the front of the heart. Clearer images in the case of Transesophageal Echocardiography are possible because the heart rests directly upon the esophagus leaving only millimeters that the ultrasound beam has to travel. This reduces the attenuation of the ultrasound signal, generating a stronger return signal, ultimately enhancing image and Doppler quality. All these structures, along with the increased distance the beam must travel, weaken the ultrasound signal thus degrading the image and Doppler quality.