This is a diagnostic method that uses the same principles described for Transthoracic Echocardiography, with the difference that the transducer, which is the element that allows images to be acquired, has a different design and instead of being positioned on the chest wall, it is inserted into the patient’s esophagus and stomach through the mouth. This location of the transducer allows animated images of the heart to be obtained with higher resolution, due to the proximity between the heart and the esophagus.
This technique, considered non-invasive, is complementary to the transthoracic echocardiogram, providing similar but more detailed information on certain structures within the cardiac cavities, being especially useful for evaluating the presence of masses (thrombi and tumors) within the heart, and in the evaluation of congenital and acquired abnormalities of the heart that are not seen in detail on transthoracic echocardiography.
To carry out the exam, an anesthetic spray is administered to the throat, the patient lies down to be examined on a stretcher and electrodes are attached to her chest that conduct the electrocardiographic signal to be continuously displayed on the echocardiograph screen during the entire procedure. study time.
The specialist then inserts the probe into the patient’s mouth and into the esophagus, where the desired images can be captured. This procedure has an estimated completion time of 20 to 30 minutes and its potential risks are few.
We currently have the most advanced technology available worldwide, which allows evaluating the heart in two dimensions (2D) and in three dimensions (3D) in real time using one or several heartbeats (4D); providing much more reliable, precise and reproducible information on the form and function of normal and abnormal cardiac structures, with special application to the evaluation of heart valves, tumors or cardiac masses or holes within the heart, allowing the complete visualization of the normal and abnormal structures, showing their shape, location, and size. This new technology makes it possible to diagnose diseases of the heart valves and some of their structures, guiding advanced techniques for percutaneous repair, using catheters, without the need for surgery.
- Arrive 15 minutes before the assigned appointment time.
- You must have at least 2 hours.
- Submit an identification document (Civil Registry, Identity Card, Citizenship Card, Immigration Certificate or Passport), health entity card, medical order and/or authorization.
- Submit: medical history, current medication formula and previously performed tests.
- Bring the money corresponding to the value of the moderating fee or the value of the particular appointment, as appropriate.
- You must attend with a companion.
- If you usually have any difficulty swallowing, throat or esophageal disease (esophagitis, varicose veins, cancer, hiatal hernia, etc.), let the doctor who is going to perform the study know. As well as if you
- have previously had digestive endoscopy.
- You should note the presence of dental prostheses.
- Requires a minimum fast of 6 hours.
- After the study, you must continue fasting for 30 minutes so that the effect of anesthesia completely disappears.
- If you do not have difficulty swallowing, you can drink and eat normally, otherwise you must wait another 30 minutes so that you can do so without difficulty.
Severe esophageal pathology such as:
- esophageal strictures.
- esophageal diverticula.
- esophageal tumors
- Esophageal varices with active or recent bleeding.
- Recent gastroesophageal surgery.
- History of mediastinal radiotherapy.
- Severe involvement of the atlantoaxial joint that prevents neck flexion.
The temporary side effects that may occur after the procedure is performed are:
- You may have small lesions in the mouth or esophagus. This does not normally require treatment.
- Vomiting reflex or increased flow of saliva are natural reactions of the body to the presence of a foreign body in the oral cavity and pharynx.
- The back of the throat may be tender and cause discomfort when swallowing. This discomfort should pass shortly after the exam.
- If contrast medium was applied during the test, there is a small risk of bruising at the puncture site and allergic reaction to the contrast medium.