Transesophageal Echocardiography
Transesophageal Echocardiography in Vijayawada
Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) is an advanced imaging test that provides highly detailed pictures of the heart and its internal structures. At Dr. N. Subbarao Center for Cardiac Care, Vijayawada, this specialized procedure is performed by our expert cardiologists using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology. Unlike a standard 2D Echo, TEE involves inserting a small, flexible probe into the esophagus (food pipe) to obtain clearer and more accurate images of the heart's chambers, valves, and blood vessels. This proximity allows cardiologists to visualize areas that are difficult to assess through traditional surface imaging, making it a critical tool for diagnosing complex cardiac conditions.
Benefits of Transesophageal Echocardiography
Transesophageal Echocardiography offers numerous benefits, particularly in diagnosing and managing structural or valvular heart diseases. The test provides high-resolution images that are invaluable for pre-surgical evaluation and post-procedure monitoring.
- Superior Clarity: Provides highly detailed images for precise cardiac assessment.
- Early Detection: Identifies valve disorders, clots, infections, and congenital abnormalities.
- Guided Procedures: Assists during cardiac surgeries and interventions for enhanced accuracy.
- Safe and Painless: Performed under mild sedation for maximum patient comfort.
Why Choose Dr. N. Subbarao Center for Cardiac Care
When you choose Dr. N. Subbarao Center for Cardiac Care for your Transesophageal Echocardiography in Vijayawada, you are choosing excellence, experience, and empathy. Led by Dr. Nallamothu Murali Krishna and Dr. Varun Nallamothu, our team combines world-class expertise with advanced diagnostic infrastructure to deliver precise results and effective treatment planning. With a patient-centric approach and stringent safety protocols, we ensure that every test contributes to accurate diagnosis and better cardiac outcomes. Trust our center for comprehensive and compassionate cardiac imaging — where every detail of your heart is examined with care and precision.
Key Benefits
Procedure Process
- Pre-procedure consultation and consent
- Fasting for 6-8 hours before the procedure
- IV access placement for sedation
- Administration of sedative medication
- Insertion of the TEE probe under supervision
- Acquisition of detailed heart images
- Careful removal of the probe
- Recovery period until sedation wears off
- Discussion of findings with patient
Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for a TEE procedure?
You must fast for 6-8 hours before the procedure. Take your regular medications with a small sip of water unless instructed otherwise. Arrange for someone to drive you home as you'll receive sedation.
Is TEE painful?
While uncomfortable, TEE is generally not painful due to sedation. The throat is numbed with an anesthetic spray before probe insertion. Most patients sleep through the procedure.
How long does TEE take?
The procedure itself takes approximately 20-30 minutes, but you'll spend about 1-2 hours at the facility to allow for preparation, recovery from sedation, and result discussion.
What are the risks of TEE?
TEE is generally safe, but potential risks include sore throat, minor bleeding, reaction to sedation, and rarely, esophageal injury. Serious complications occur in less than 1 in 10,000 cases.