trans-Esophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

A Trans-Esophageal Echogardiogram or TEE is an ultrasound test that uses sound waves to take pictures of the heart. It is able to produce clearer images of the heart than a regular ultrasound.

To do the procedure, the patient is sedated, and the gag reflex is suppressed by spraying a local anesthetic into the back of the throat. A special tube is then passed down the throat into the esophagus or food pipe. The end of this tube is placed near the heart which allowing very clear, detailed pictures to be taken of the heart's valves and chambers without interference from the ribs or lungs.