Taking a Closer Look at Your Heart with Transesophageal Echocardiography in Arizona

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is a minimally invasive procedure that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to produce detailed images of your heart and arteries. Your doctor may order this test to determine: 

  • If there is any evidence of blood clots
  • How well your valves work
  • The amount of blood flowing to your heart
  • If there is any fluid buildup inside your heart
  • The size of your heart

At Dignity Health of Arizona, you can trust your heart to our cardiology experts. With a wide range of advanced services, we are a nationally recognized leader in heart and vascular care. We know that heart-related symptoms can be scary, and we are dedicated to helping diagnose and treat your condition. To learn more about our heart diagnostic procedures, including transesophageal echocardiography, in Arizona, Find a Doctor online or call (844) 231-0659.

 

Why Transesophageal Echocardiography is Performed

Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is used to diagnose several heart conditions, including: 

TEE may provide more detailed pictures of the heart than traditional echocardiography. TEE creates images of your heart using a long, flexible scope that is inserted into your esophagus. In contrast, a traditional echo is taken from the outside of your chest and has a less direct view of the heart. Your doctor may order a TEE when more precise heart images are needed.

 

What to Expect: Transesophageal Echocardiography at Dignity Health

A transesophageal echocardiogram is a short and painless outpatient procedure performed at one of our hospitals. You will receive a sedative and a throat-numbing spray to make you as comfortable as possible. Once you are fully relaxed, the doctor will guide the scope down your throat and through your esophagus until it is next to your heart. Once in place, it gives off sound waves that change into images, which can be seen on your doctor’s computer.

 

Recovery after Transesophageal Echocardiography

You will be released from the hospital within a couple hours of your procedure. Keep in mind that you will need someone to drive you home. You may experience a sore throat for a couple days following your TEE. Your doctor will tell you if it’s OK to take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, to relieve the pain. Your doctor will provide you with any other instructions you may need. Most people return to normal activities the next day. Remember that Dignity Health is here for you, every step of the way. If you have any questions or concerns following your procedure, give us a call at (844) 231-0659. 

Specializing in cutting-edge cardiac diagnostics & care, Dignity Health offers transesophageal echocardiography in Arizona.