Going into detail on what this term means and how it relates to health guidelines. This article may be incomplete.
A Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) is a procedure used to obtain detailed images of the heart by inserting a specialized probe into the esophagus. This imaging technique provides clearer and more detailed images of the heart structures compared to a standard echocardiogram performed on the chest wall. Transesophageal echocardiograms are commonly used in clinical practice to evaluate heart function, diagnose structural abnormalities, assess blood flow patterns, and detect blood clots in the heart chambers.
During a TEE, the patient is usually sedated to minimize discomfort, and a thin, flexible probe is guided into the esophagus, located close to the heart. By emitting high-frequency sound waves and capturing the echoes that bounce back, the probe creates detailed real-time images of the heart's chambers, valves, and surrounding structures. This procedure allows healthcare providers to visualize specific areas of the heart more clearly and accurately, leading to a more precise diagnosis and treatment planning for various heart conditions.
In clinical settings, transesophageal echocardiograms are valuable tools for assessing conditions such as heart valve abnormalities, infective endocarditis, congenital heart defects, and sources of emboli in patients with strokes of unknown origin. The detailed images obtained through this procedure contribute to a comprehensive evaluation of the heart's function and structure, helping healthcare providers make informed decisions about the management of cardiovascular diseases and the implementation of appropriate interventions to improve patient outcomes.