Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) at Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic, Dubai Marina – JBR
At Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic, we offer Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE), a specialized imaging procedure that provides highly detailed and accurate images of your heart. Unlike traditional echocardiograms, TEE involves inserting a small probe through the esophagus to capture close-up, clear images of your heart’s structure, including the heart valves, chambers, and blood vessels. This procedure is invaluable for diagnosing heart conditions that may not be visible through conventional methods.
What is Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)?
Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time, detailed images of the heart. A small, flexible ultrasound probe is carefully inserted through the mouth and into the esophagus, giving doctors a direct view of the heart from an optimal angle, bypassing the ribs and lungs. This allows for clearer and more precise imaging, helping to diagnose a variety of heart conditions.
Common Reasons for TEE
TEE is often recommended when a standard echocardiogram doesn’t provide sufficient information or when a detailed evaluation of the heart is needed. Some of the most common reasons include:
- Valvular Heart Disease: Assessing conditions like valve regurgitation (leaking valves) or stenosis (narrowing valves).
- Atrial Fibrillation: Detecting blood clots in the atria, which can lead to strokes, especially in those with atrial fibrillation.
- Infective Endocarditis: Diagnosing infections of the heart valves or the inner lining of the heart.
- Congenital Heart Defects: Identifying structural abnormalities present from birth.
- Aortic Disease: Investigating aortic aneurysms or aortic dissection.
- Thrombus Detection: Checking for blood clots in the heart chambers.
- Pre-Surgical Assessment: Evaluating heart function before surgeries such as heart valve replacement or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG).
- Cardiac Tumors: Identifying possible tumors within the heart.
What to Expect During a TEE Procedure
Preparation:
- You’ll be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure to ensure your stomach is empty.
- A mild sedative or local anesthetic will be given to help you relax and ensure minimal discomfort.
During the Procedure:
- The doctor will insert a small ultrasound probe through your mouth and into the esophagus, positioning it just behind the heart.
- You may experience a slight gag reflex, but the sedative will help reduce discomfort.
- The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on its complexity.
Post-Procedure:
- After the procedure, you will be monitored until the sedative wears off.
- You may be asked to rest for a short time before you’re allowed to go home.
- You will be advised not to eat or drink until the numbness in your throat subsides.
- The images captured will be analyzed by our expert cardiologists, who will provide detailed insights into your heart’s health.
Benefits of Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)
- Enhanced Imaging: TEE provides high-resolution, detailed images of the heart, especially beneficial for patients with conditions such as obesity or lung disease, which may interfere with traditional echocardiograms.
- Non-Invasive: This procedure is non-invasive, requiring no surgery or incisions, and involves minimal recovery time.
- Accurate Diagnosis: TEE helps identify conditions that may be difficult to detect with standard imaging tests, such as valvular heart diseases, cardiac thrombi, or infective endocarditis.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Allows for immediate visualization of heart function, facilitating rapid diagnosis and treatment planning.
Comprehensive Cardiology Services at Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic
At Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic in Dubai Marina, we provide an extensive range of cardiology services designed to address all aspects of heart health. Our expert cardiologists use advanced imaging techniques like TEE to provide a detailed and accurate assessment of your heart’s health, enabling effective treatment plans tailored to your specific needs.
Our clinic also offers comprehensive services in orthopedics, gynecology, neurology, and urology, ensuring you receive holistic healthcare in a convenient and welcoming environment.
Book Your TEE Appointment Today
If you’re experiencing heart symptoms or need an advanced heart evaluation, book your Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) appointment at Emerald Avenue Medical Clinic in Dubai Marina – JBR. Our experienced cardiologists are ready to provide you with a thorough heart evaluation and a clear treatment plan to help manage your health effectively.