We often come across times when we are required to undergo an ultrasound or an x-ray, occasionally even an Echocardiography. Echocardiography is an ultrasound of the heart. An echocardiogram views and creates images of the structures of the heart.
A transesophageal echocardiogram is a non-invasive, painless investigative procedure which creates high quality pictures of structures of the heart and its blood vessels. It shows the size and shape of the chambers of the heart and valves of the heart along with their functioning.
A transesophageal echocardiogram can be done in both children as well as adults have one of the following conditions
Transesophageal echocardiography is also a useful tool while performing cardiac surgeries for assessment of the patient during and after surgery. It also works as a guide during cardiac surgeries and cardiac catheterization.
Transesophageal echocardiography can provide images in both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional forms.
Images can be observed in the following 4 basic views
In deep trans-gastric views, aortic valve, ventricular outflow tract and all four chambers of the heart can be observed. Cardiac output can also be measured through this view.
A transesophageal echocardiogram is always performed in a cardiac unit having an in-patient facility. Therefore your cardiologist will inform you about preparing for this procedure beforehand.
To perform a transesophageal echocardiogram, your clinician will introduce a probe having a transducer at the tip through your mouth and throat into the esophagus.
Since the esophagus is right behind your heart, the transducer will be able to achieve a better picture of the heart and its functioning. While performing a transesophageal echocardiography, a transducer sends sound waves to the heart.
An uncomplicated procedure of transesophageal echocardiography takes about 20-40 minutes. Time taken for sedation along with the procedure is about 90 minutes. A person can resume his/her normal activities 24 hours after the procedure.
Guidelines have been laid down by the American Society of Anesthesiologists and the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists for performing a transesophageal echocardiogram. Indications for transesophageal echocardiography can be separated into 3 categories.
Category I | Category II | Category III |
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Evaluation of hemodynamic stability in ICU or OT Assessment during repair of aortic dissections. | To monitor placement and function of assist devices Repair of thoracic aortic dissections without involvement of aortic valves | To monitor patients with automatic cardiac defibrillators, pulmonary artery catheters or intra-aortic balloon pump |
Intra Operative Use In
| Intra Operative Use In
| Intra Operative Use In
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Peri Operative Use In
| Peri Operative Use In
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There is a very small risk complications associated with this procedure. This is the reason why it can be performed in adults as well as children. It is a relatively safe procedure. Yet, it can also have some fatal complications. The complications can arise either due to the probe used for a procedure or due to the procedure itself.
You may feel some sickness in your stomach but this goes away with adequate rest and medications. There may also be transient soreness in the throat and difficulty in swallowing due to irritation caused by the probe.
Medically Reviewed By
Dr. Himanshi is a Homoeopathic consultant and currently working as a lecturer in Post-graduate faculty of Homeopathy, Parul University, Vadodara. Completed BHMS and MD in Homeopathy in January 2018 and also has a clinical experience of about 6 years. Personal interests include reading, spending time with family and traveling.
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