TEE stands for Transesophageal Echocardiogram — it’s an imaging procedure that gives a very detailed look at the heart

What is a TEE?

A TEE is an ultrasound of the heart where the probe is placed down the throat and into the esophagus, instead of on the chest.

Because the esophagus sits directly behind the heart, this gives much clearer images than a standard transthoracic echo (TTE).

Why do doctors order a TEE?

A TEE is done when doctors need more precise or high-resolution images, such as:

1. Detecting blood clots in the heart

Especially in the left atrial appendage (common in atrial fibrillation).

2. Checking heart valves closely

Useful for:

Leaky valves (mitral regurgitation).

Aortic valve issues.

Endocarditis (infection on a valve).

3. Guiding procedures:

Such as:

Ablations

Watchman device placement.

Valve repair/clip.

Cardioversion (if clot is suspected).

4. Evaluating congenital defects.

Such as atrial septal defects (ASD), PFO, etc.

What happens during the procedure?

1. Preparation:

You fast for 6 hours.

IV is placed.

You get light sedation (often something like midazolam or propofol).

Throat is numbed.

2. Insertion:

A flexible ultrasound probe is passed gently into your throat and esophagus.

You are sedated and usually don’t remember it.

3. Imaging:

The doctor takes detailed pictures of chambers, valves, and any clots.

The test usually lasts 10–20 minutes.

4. Recovery:

Sedation wears off over 30–60 minutes.

You can’t eat or drink until the throat numbness wears off.

Someone must drive you home.

Is a TEE safe?

Yes, generally very safe. Complications are rare.

Possible risks (uncommon):

Sore throat.

Nausea.

Small risk of esophageal irritation or injury.

Reaction to sedation.

Who performs a TEE?

A cardiologist, often one specializing in cardiac imaging.