Transesophageal Echocardiogram
Overview
A Transesophageal Echocardiogram, often referred to as TEE, is a specialized medical procedure that plays a crucial role in providing detailed insights into the heart’s structure and function. By utilizing advanced ultrasound technology, TEE offers a unique and more in-depth perspective on cardiac health, aiding cardiac specialists in the diagnosis and treatment of various heart-related conditions.
This procedure serves as an invaluable tool for understanding and addressing complex cardiac issues, ultimately contributing to improved patient care and outcomes. Our preventive cardio expert Dr. Tamkeen Kinah uses Transoesophageal Echocardiogram in Dubai to detect blood clots, evaluate heart valves, and accordingly guide treatment for arrhythmias and other heart conditions as well.
Understanding TEE
Transesophageal Echocardiograms (TEEs) are imaging tests that use sound waves to create high-quality, moving images of the heart. An echocardiogram (echo) depicts the size and shape of the heart as well as details of its internal structures.
To obtain images for a TEE, an imaging technologist guides the transducer (a sonogram device in the shape of a thin, flexible tube) into your mouth and down your esophagus. A sound transducer is a device that generates sound waves. These sound waves produce echoes as they bounce off the various areas of your heart. The transducer then sends the echoes to a computer, which converts them into images.
TEE may be combined with Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler methods by your provider. These specialised techniques provide information about the speed and direction of blood-flow through your heart.
What is the Transoesophageal Echocardiogram procedure used for?
- Examine the heart valves for presence of vegetations in case of infective endocarditis.
- Examine the heart for blood clots to help guide treatment for atrial fibrillation, a type of arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat).
- Examine the heart valves and chamber walls for structural abnormalities.
- Assess the presence of ASD/VSD which is also termed as hole in the heart
Transesophageal Echocardiogram Procedure
An endoscope (a long, thin tube) is used by the doctor to carefully guide a small transducer down your throat and oesophagus (food pipe). This procedure is done under local anaesthesia or conscious sedation and takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Expectation post TEE
You’ll rest in a recovery area after your test. You will be monitored closely until your vital signs have stabilized, you start swallowing normally, and you feel alert. Your nurses will then remove your chest electrodes, cuff, and clips, as well as your IV tube.
After your test, you may feel groggy, so go home and rest. Unless your doctor instructs you otherwise
What do TEE results indicate?
Your results will be reviewed with you by your doctor. The images may depict the following issues:
- Changes in the size of your heart
- Changes in the thickness of the heart muscles
- How efficiently heart pumps blood.
- Presence of extra tissue around your heart valves
- Presence of back flow of the blood called regurgitation.
- Presence of narrowed valves called stenosis.
- Presence of blood clots in the heart
- Heart tissue that has been damaged, indicating a previous heart attack
- Any unusual connections between your heart and blood vessels
Contact Dr. Tamkeen Kinah to learn more about Transesophageal Echocardiogram in Dubai
Don’t let concerns about your heart health go unanswered. If you have been advised to undergo a Transesophageal Echocardiogram, don’t hesitate to reach out to our cardiologist Dr. Tamkeen Kinah for more information and guidance. With her expertise and experience, she can provide you with the necessary knowledge and support to ease any worries or doubts you may have.
Take control of your heart health today by getting in touch with Dr. Kinah and taking the first step towards a healthier tomorrow.