WHO NEEDS TRANSESOPHAEL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY?

Doctors utilize Trans-esophageal echocardiography, which provides better view of the left atrium thrombus, atrial septal defect, aortic dissection, and mitral valve prolapsed, to withdraw detailed information of your heart

Things to be aware of BEFORE THE TESTING?

8 hours prior to the TEE test, food and beverage intake are forbidden; and the patient is required to sign a consent form.

Things to be aware of DURING THE TESTING?

When taking a TEE test, the medical examiner would either spray anesthetic locally on the patient’s mouth or inject anesthetic to help him or her relax. The doctor would then gently insert a flexible tube down the patient’s throat to the esophagus until it reaches the back of his or her heart.

Things to be aware of AFTER THE TESTING?

The patient should not intake any food or beverage for at least 30 minutes; if there is minor blood in saliva, do not panic; do inform us if there are blood clots in saliva.

Complications

• Common complications: Mild throat discomfort (most common, transient), temporary dysphagia, and minor lip or dental abrasions.
• Rare but important complications to be aware of: Esophageal perforation (<0.03%, extremely rare), aspiration pneumonia (under sedation), arrhythmias, and bleeding.
• Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur after the examination: Persistent chest pain, severe pain on swallowing, fever, hemoptysis, or shortness of breath.