Adult Echocardiography

Trans-Thoracic Echocardiography (TTE)

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is a noninvasive imaging modality that uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound), to examine and obtain images of the heart. It is used to evaluate almost all cardiovascular diseases. A small instrument called a transducer is placed on different locations of the chest wall. The transducer sends ultrasound waves to the deeper internal structures and picks up the echo signals. The computer attached to the echo machine converts them into images which are projected on a monitor. The procedure has no known risks, and are interpreted by our cardiologists who are experts in the field of echocardiography. All of our cardiologists who interpret these tests are licensed in adult echocardiography.

Trans-Esophageal Echocardiography (TEE)

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to generate high-quality dynamic images of the heart. TEE employs an ultrasound transducer to produce sound waves and is positioned on an endoscope (long, thin, flexible instrument) that is guided down the throat into your esophagus.

The procedure is performed in the hospital under sedation. You will be given an intravenous line which is used to provide sedation. There is continuous monitoring of your blood pressure, heart rate, and oxygen levels. After sedation a ultrasound probe is placed into the esophagus and pictures are taken. The procedure is very safe with minimal potential side effects to the esophagus. The procedure takes about 30 minutes.