Transesophageal Electrocardiogram

Heart Ultrasounds

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an ultrasound of the heart that provides doctors with detailed pictures of their patient’s heart condition. These images help doctors diagnose various heart diseases so that they can prescribe proper treatments for their patients. Washington Township Medical Foundation provides transesophageal echocardiograms in Fremont and the surrounding area. You may need a TEE if you have recently experienced a heart attack of have had heart problems in the past.

TEEs can help diagnose:

• Heart Attacks
• Heart Valve Disease
• Coronary Heart Disease
• Pericarditis
• Heart Injuries
• Blood Clots
• Cancer

The Operation

TEEs require that a thing tube be inserted in the mouth and into the esophagus so that they can release soundwaves that produce an ultrasound. Patients are often apprehensive about this, but the operation is almost completely harmless. To help patients stay calm, a nurse will typically administer a mild sedative. At the end of the tube is a transducer, which will produce the soundwaves that bounce around the heart. The entire procedure takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

The Aftermath

Patients can typically leave the hospital immediately after taking the test. Your throat may be sore for a short time afterward. Avoid eating or drinking during this brief period of discomfort because you could choke. After reviewing the images, your doctor should inform you of what they found and begin treatment. This could involve anything from medication to surgery, depending on what they find.

Washington Township Medical Foundation is equipped with transesophageal echocardiogram equipment and numerous other cardiovascular testing devices. Contact us if you have need of heart healthcare in Fremont of the surrounding areas.