Pre-Procedure / Post-Procedure Instructions

Trans-Esophageal Echocardiogram (TEE): This is a test that is used to rule out or make sure that there is no clot in the atrium (top chamber). This may be done before a catheter ablation procedure or occasionally before a cardioversion. A TEE may also be ordered by the physician or healthcare provider if he needs a very clear picture of your heart and its structures.These pictures help the doctor to determine your heart function, to see how healthy your valves are and to look for any blood clots in the atrium.

Prior to the test : You will be asked whether you have trouble swallowing or have a history of problems with your esophagus. It is very important that we know whether or not you have had any procedures on your esophagus (dilatation) before we schedule the test.

  • You will be asked to have nothing to eat or drink (including water) for 6 hours before the procedure. You will need to let the doctors know if you have dentures or loose teeth.
  • Monitoring equipment will be attached so that the nurses can monitor your heart rate and blood pressure.
  • An intravenous catheter (IV) will be started in your hand or arm. This will be used to give you sedative medications to put you into a twilight sleep.
  • You will be asked about allergies, and any history of problems with your esophagus.
  • Your throat will be numbed by the nurse with a numbing spray.

During the test: You will be sedated or very sleepy. The nurse will watch your vital signs and help to keep you comfortable. which a small flexible tube (endoscope) is passed down the back of your throat into the esophagus (food pipe). This tube has the ability to use sound waves (ultrasound) to take pictures of your heart.

After the test: You will be allowed to wake up from the anesthesia medicine. If you are to have another test or procedure, the nurses will take you to that procedure area. Your throat may be a little sore, or irritated feeling. This is normal and will go away in a day or so. If you are to go home, you will be allowed to fully recover from the anesthesia and allowed to go home. Someone will need to take you home, since you are not allowed to drive after anesthesia.

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