Name of the Procedure:

Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) for Congenital Cardiac Anomalies; Placement of Transesophageal Probe Only

Summary

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) involves inserting a specialized probe down the esophagus to capture detailed images of the heart. This procedure provides high-resolution pictures of the heart's structure and function, especially useful for diagnosing congenital cardiac anomalies.

Purpose

TEE is performed to diagnose, evaluate, and manage congenital heart defects. The goal is to obtain clear and detailed images of the heart that aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Indications

• Unexplained chest pain or discomfort
• Abnormal heart sounds or murmurs
• Suspected congenital heart defects (e.g., atrial septal defect, ventricular septal defect)
• Evaluation of known congenital heart anomalies
• Preoperative assessment for cardiac surgery

Preparation

• Patients must fast for at least 6 hours before the procedure to ensure an empty stomach.
• Medication adjustments may be necessary, which will be advised by the healthcare provider.
• Diagnostic tests like blood work and a pre-procedure echocardiogram may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given a sedative to help with relaxation and comfort.
2. The throat is numbed with a local anesthetic spray.
3. The TEE probe, which is attached to an ultrasound machine, is gently inserted into the esophagus.
4. High-frequency sound waves create detailed images of the heart structures which are displayed on a monitor.
5. The procedure focuses on capturing high-resolution images to analyze congenital cardiac anomalies.
6. After imaging, the probe is carefully removed.

Duration

The procedure typically takes 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

TEE is performed in a hospital setting, often in a specialized echocardiography lab or a cardiac catheterization lab.

Personnel

• Cardiologist or a specialized cardiac sonographer to perform the procedure
• Anesthesiologist or nurse anesthetist for sedation
• Nurses for procedural assistance and patient care

Risks and Complications

• Sore throat or minor discomfort during the procedure
• Breathing difficulties due to sedation
• Rare risks include esophageal injury, bleeding, or infection
• Possible complications managed by the medical team promptly

Benefits

• Provides detailed and accurate images for diagnosing congenital heart defects
• Improves treatment planning and outcomes
• Minimally invasive compared to surgical options
• Quick and typically safe procedure with significant diagnostic value

Recovery

• Patients will be monitored until the sedation wears off.
• Throat discomfort may persist for a short period.
• Patients can usually resume normal activities the following day.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and further treatment.

Alternatives

• Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE): less invasive but may provide less detailed images
• Cardiac MRI/CT: alternative imaging techniques that do not involve esophageal probe placement
• Pros and cons will be discussed by the healthcare provider based on patient-specific factors.

Patient Experience

• Mild discomfort during insertion of the probe, mitigated by sedation and throat anesthetics.
• Sedation ensures minimal pain and a relaxed state during the procedure.
• Post-procedure throat irritation is common but typically resolves quickly.