Transesophageal Echocardiogram How Long Does It Take

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) typically takes around 20 minutes from preparation to completion. This includes the time needed for pre-procedure preparations such as signing a consent form, applying local anesthesia to the throat using oral lidocaine or tetracaine hydrochloride, and post-procedure cleaning and disinfecting of the probe.

Understanding the Procedure Timeline

During the actual procedure, the time from when the probe enters the esophagus to the end of the examination generally lasts no more than 5 minutes. One key factor in keeping the procedure short is the patient's comfort and tolerance. Some individuals have a more sensitive throat, which may require 2–3 attempts to properly and smoothly insert the probe, minimizing discomfort and reducing the risk of injury.

Medical Safety Considerations

Another important reason for limiting the duration of the exam is the potential for the probe to heat up during use. When the temperature reaches above 41°C, the device typically issues a warning. If it exceeds 42°C, there is a risk of causing thermal injury or burns to the esophagus. Therefore, medical professionals must complete the exam quickly and efficiently while ensuring patient safety.

Post-Procedure Analysis

During the examination, comprehensive image capture is performed. After the procedure, all the acquired images are reviewed, analyzed, and integrated to generate a detailed diagnostic report. This allows cardiologists to assess heart function, detect abnormalities, and guide further treatment decisions based on accurate and detailed imaging data.