In certain situations, an ultrasound of the heart must be performed from the esophagus. This provides clearer images than those produced from outside the body.
It can provide information about
- Thromboses (blood clots) in the heart
- Inflammation of the heart valves (endocarditis)
- The condition of the heart valves for planning of heart valve surgery
- Congenital defect joining the right and left ventricles and the atria
- Examination of the aorta (main artery)
Procedure
The patient lies down and an intravenous line is placed in the arm. The throat is numbed with a spray. The ultrasound probe is inserted into the esophagus, similar to a gastroscopy.
The patient must fast (no food) for 8 hours before the procedure.
Duration
Approx. 1 hours for preparation and consultation with the doctor, transesophageal ultrasound
