- In transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), an ultrasound transmitter located at the end of a catheter is passed through the esophagus to the stomach, where flexion of the tip permits imaging of the heart through the stomach wall and the diaphragm, thus allowing clearer and more accurate diagnostic evaluation. It is particularly useful in evaluating valvular disease.
- As the catheter is slowly withdrawn, views of cardiac structures are obtained at several levels in various 2-D planes.
- TEE can be used for continuous monitoring of cardiac and noncardiac patients during surgery.
- Atrial fibrillation is the most common cardiac arrhythmia that can occur during TEE. It occurs in more than 10% of patients over age 75, accounting for increased morbidity and mortality due to thromboembolic complications and their consequences.
Nursing and Patient Care Considerations
- Explain procedure to patient and provide written information, if possible.
- This is an invasive procedure; patient will require mild sedation and must be kept on nothing-by-mouth status (NPO) for a specified time usually 4 to 6 hours before the procedure.
- The entire procedure takes less than 30 minutes.
- The results of the study will be discussed with patient by the physician or primary care provider.
