How to Use Transesophageal Echocardiography
- 1). Fill out a consent form to give your permission for the test and do not hesitate to ask if anything is unclear.
- 2). Make sure that you fast for a specific length of time before the procedure, as determined by your doctor.
- 3). Notify your doctor if you are pregnant, are currently taking medications or supplements, cannot tolerate certain medications or anesthesia, have a history of blood and other disorders, or have a history of heart ailments including endocarditis or heart valve disease.
- 4). Undergo a blood test or take a sedative prior to the TEE proper, depending on what the physician says.
- 5). Remove any dentures beforehand as well as any jewelry or accessories as these may interfere with the test. Wear a gown, if you are instructed to remove your clothing.
Empty your bladder before the test. - 6). Lie on a table or bed positioning your body on your left side. Place a pillow behind your back for support. An intravenous line containing a sedative or oxygen probe may be administered, if necessary.
The doctor will next connect you to an ECG monitor. Using adhesive electrodes, the monitor will record and monitor your heart's electrical activity during the procedure. The doctor will also apply a local anesthetic spray to the back of your throat to allow the TEE probe or transducer to pass more comfortably down your throat. (A transducer is a type of device that allows sound waves to bounce off the heart and then translate those sounds into images.) - 7). Swallow to make the tube passes easily. The images will be obtained as soon as the probe has been correctly positioned. After 10 to 30 minutes, the tube will be removed.
- 8). Stay at a recovery area after the procedure. It is during this time that your vital signs will be monitored. It is only when your gag reflexes return, your vital signs are stabilized and you become more alert that the doctor will be able to remove the intravenous line, oxygen probe, and ECG electrode pads.
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