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What is a TEE?
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a test that enables doctors to obtain images of the heart from inside the esophagus (the tube that goes from the mouth to the stomach). Since the esophagus lies close to the heart, the TEE allows very clear images of the heart structures and blood flow.
How does the TEE work?
A long probe (flexible tube) about the width of a little finder is inserted into the mouth and down the esophagus. A small transducer at the tip of the probe sends ultrasound waves that reflect (echo) off the various parts of the heart. The echoes are converted into moving images of the heart.
The images show the actual shape and movement of the different heart structures and the flow of blood through the heart chambers and valves. The images are displayed on the television screen, and can be recorded on videotape.
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