How Long Does a Transesophageal Echocardiogram Take?

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) typically takes around 20 minutes from preparation to completion. This includes the time needed for the patient to sign the informed consent form, followed by local anesthesia of the throat using oral lidocaine or tetracaine hydrochloride. After the procedure, the probe must be cleaned and disinfected properly.

Understanding the Procedure Time

During the actual examination, the time from inserting the probe into the esophagus until the end of the test usually does not exceed 5 minutes. One of the main reasons for keeping the procedure short is patient comfort. Since some individuals have a more sensitive throat, the insertion may require multiple attempts—typically 2 to 3 times—to position the probe correctly and smoothly.

Medical Safety Concerns

Another critical factor in limiting the duration is the potential for thermal injury. As the probe operates, its temperature can rise. When it reaches 41°C, a warning signal is usually triggered, and if it exceeds 42°C, there is a risk of causing burns to the esophageal lining. Therefore, the examination must be completed quickly to avoid any harm.

Post-Procedure Workflow

Throughout the exam, comprehensive images are captured and stored. Once the procedure is finished, these images are carefully reviewed, analyzed, and compiled into a detailed report by a trained cardiologist or technician. This post-processing step ensures accurate diagnosis and interpretation of the patient's cardiac function and structure.