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Transesophageal Echocardiography
What to Expect
What to
Do the Night Before
- Do not eat or drink for 4 hours before the procedure to make
sure that your stomach is empty. You may have sips of water
to swallow your medications.
- If the test is done as an outpatient, have someone drive you
to the hospital. Your driver must remain in the hospital during
your test. No driving is allowed for 24 hours.
- Be sure to tell the doctor if you have a problem swallowing
or if you have any conditions involving your esophagus or stomach.
- Also, tell the doctor or nurse if you have allergies to medications,
especially sedatives (medicines that help you relax).
Diagnostic
Tests Before the Procedure
These will vary, depending on the reason for your procedure. An
EKG and regular echo may have been done. Blood tests such as a
blood count, electrolyte levels (potassium, magnesium, calcium,
etc.), or other tests may have been done.
Directions
to the Medical Center or Hospital
It is important to arrive at your scheduled time. Your procedure
may not begin immediately due to varying lengths of procedures
scheduled before your procedure. You will be updated as frequently
as possible.
Preparing
for the Procedure in the Hospital
- Description of IV, site preparations, and medications that
may be administered - An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted
in your hand or arm. EKG electrodes will be placed on your chest.
If your chest is very hairy, small patches of skin may be shaved
so that the electrodes will make very close contact with the
skin. A numbing spray such as Cetacaine (lidocaine) or Hurricaine
will be sprayed in the back of your throat to make passing the
TEE probe into your throat more comfortable. Sedative medications
may be given in the IV to help you relax and remain comfortable
during the procedure. You may be given a dose of IV antibiotics
prior to the procedure, if indicated.
- Consent forms - You will be asked to sign a consent
form after your physician explains the procedure, its purpose,
any risks, and the expected outcome. You should read through
the consent carefully before signing it. If you have any questions
or need more information, ask your physician.
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