Advanced Heart Imaging for More Accurate Diagnoses

When it comes to your heart, every detail matters. While a standard echocardiogram provides valuable information about the heart’s structure and function, there are times when your cardiologist needs an even closer look. A Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) is an advanced imaging procedure that produces exceptionally detailed images of the heart, allowing physicians to diagnose conditions that may not be visible with traditional ultrasound.

At Cardiology First, Dr. Van Adamson utilizes Transesophageal Echocardiography when a more comprehensive evaluation of the heart is needed. This specialized diagnostic test provides clear, high-resolution images that help identify valve disorders, blood clots, infections, congenital heart abnormalities, and other cardiovascular conditions.

Serving patients throughout New Braunfels, Schertz, Cibolo, Seguin, San Marcos, Garden Ridge, Selma, Universal City, and surrounding communities, Cardiology First is committed to providing advanced diagnostic technology combined with compassionate, patient-centered care.

Our goal is to identify heart conditions accurately so that every patient receives the most appropriate treatment possible.

What Is a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)?

A Transesophageal Echocardiogram, commonly called a TEE, is an advanced ultrasound examination that creates highly detailed images of the heart by placing a small ultrasound probe inside the esophagus.

Because the esophagus sits directly behind the heart, the ultrasound probe can capture much clearer images than those obtained through the chest wall.

Unlike X-rays or CT scans, a TEE does not use radiation. Instead, it relies on high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the heart’s chambers, valves, blood vessels, and surrounding structures.

This allows your cardiologist to evaluate the heart with remarkable accuracy.

Why Would I Need a TEE?

Your physician may recommend a Transesophageal Echocardiogram when additional detail is needed beyond what a standard echocardiogram can provide.

TEE is commonly used to evaluate:

• Heart valve disease
• Blood clots inside the heart
• Stroke risk
• Atrial fibrillation
• Heart infections (endocarditis)
• Congenital heart defects
• Aortic abnormalities
• Artificial heart valves
• Structural heart disease
• Sources of unexplained stroke

This advanced imaging study often helps answer important questions that influence treatment decisions.

Conditions Diagnosed with TEE

Because of its excellent image quality, TEE is one of the most valuable diagnostic tools in cardiology.

Conditions commonly diagnosed include:

Heart Valve Disease

TEE provides detailed visualization of all four heart valves and helps determine whether valves are narrowed, leaking, or infected.

Blood Clots

Patients with atrial fibrillation are at increased risk of blood clot formation inside the heart.

TEE is often used to detect clots before certain procedures, reducing the risk of stroke.

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an infection affecting the heart valves or inner lining of the heart.

TEE is considered one of the most accurate methods for identifying infected heart valves.

Congenital Heart Defects

Some patients are born with structural abnormalities that may not be detected until adulthood.

TEE allows physicians to identify these defects with exceptional precision.

Aortic Disease

The aorta is the body’s largest artery.

TEE can identify:

• Aortic aneurysms
• Aortic dissection
• Plaque buildup
• Structural abnormalities

Stroke Evaluation

Sometimes a stroke occurs because of a blood clot originating inside the heart.

TEE helps determine whether the heart is the source of these clots.

How Does a TEE Work?

Unlike a traditional echocardiogram performed over the chest, a TEE uses a flexible tube with a small ultrasound probe attached to its tip.

The probe is gently guided into the esophagus after your throat has been numbed and mild sedation has been administered.

Because the esophagus lies directly behind the heart, the ultrasound images are not obstructed by the ribs or lungs, producing exceptionally detailed pictures.

The procedure typically lasts between 20 and 45 minutes.

Preparing for Your Procedure

To ensure the best possible results, patients are usually asked to:

• Avoid eating or drinking for several hours before the test
• Take medications only as instructed
• Arrange for someone to drive them home
• Inform the physician of allergies or medical conditions
• Remove dentures before the procedure if applicable

Our team provides complete preparation instructions before your appointment and answers any questions you may have.

What to Expect During the Procedure

Your comfort and safety are always our priority.

During the examination:

• An IV line may be started.
• Your throat is numbed with a local anesthetic spray.
• Mild sedation helps you relax.
• Heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels are continuously monitored.
• The ultrasound probe is carefully inserted into the esophagus.
• Images of your heart are obtained from multiple angles.

Most patients remember very little of the procedure because of the sedative medication.

After Your TEE

Following the procedure, you’ll remain in a recovery area while the sedation wears off.

Most patients return home the same day.

You may experience:

• Mild sore throat
• Temporary hoarseness
• Mild drowsiness

These symptoms usually resolve within a few hours.

Because sedation is used, patients should not drive or operate machinery until the following day.

Benefits of Transesophageal Echocardiography

TEE offers several important advantages over traditional imaging.

Benefits include:

• Exceptional image quality
• No radiation exposure
• Highly accurate diagnosis
• Detailed valve assessment
• Better visualization of blood clots
• Improved stroke evaluation
• Superior imaging of artificial valves
• Real-time heart function assessment

The additional information provided by TEE often leads to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatment.

Understanding Your Results

Once the study is complete, Dr. Van Adamson carefully reviews every image.

During your follow-up visit, he will explain:

• What the examination revealed
• Whether abnormalities are present
• Your diagnosis
• Recommended treatment options
• Need for additional testing
• Long-term monitoring recommendations

Patients are encouraged to ask questions and participate actively in their treatment decisions.

Personalized Treatment After a TEE

If the examination identifies a cardiovascular condition, Dr. Adamson develops a personalized care plan based on your diagnosis and overall health.

Treatment may include:

• Medication management
• Blood pressure control
• Cholesterol reduction
• Blood-thinning medications
• Additional diagnostic testing
• Referral for specialized procedures when appropriate
• Lifestyle modifications
• Routine follow-up visits

Every treatment plan is individualized to support long-term heart health and reduce future cardiovascular risks.

Why Choose Cardiology First?

Patients throughout New Braunfels trust Dr. Van Adamson because of his commitment to advanced cardiovascular care delivered with compassion and respect.

At Cardiology First, you’ll receive:

• Comprehensive cardiovascular evaluations
• State-of-the-art diagnostic technology
• Personalized treatment plans
• Thorough patient education
• Preventive heart care
• Long-term follow-up
• Clear communication
• A physician who takes time to understand your concerns

Our mission is to provide exceptional cardiovascular care while helping patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident throughout their healthcare journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a TEE painful?

Most patients experience little discomfort. Your throat is numbed before the procedure, and sedation helps you remain comfortable throughout the examination.

How long does the procedure take?

The imaging portion typically lasts 20 to 45 minutes, although you should plan to spend additional time for preparation and recovery.

Will I be asleep?

Most patients receive conscious sedation. You’ll be relaxed and comfortable but able to breathe on your own throughout the procedure.

Is TEE safe?

Yes. Transesophageal Echocardiography is a commonly performed and very safe procedure when conducted by experienced cardiovascular specialists.

When can I resume normal activities?

Most patients return to normal activities the following day after the effects of sedation have worn off.

Schedule Your Transesophageal Echocardiogram in New Braunfels

If your physician has recommended a Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE), choosing an experienced cardiology team can make all the difference. At Cardiology First, Dr. Van Adamson combines advanced diagnostic expertise with compassionate, patient-centered care to ensure every patient receives an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Whether you’re being evaluated for a heart valve condition, atrial fibrillation, unexplained stroke, or another cardiovascular concern, our team is committed to helping you understand your heart health and move forward with confidence.

Contact Cardiology First

Dr. Van Adamson, MD
Cardiology First

📞 Phone: (210) 767-2549

🌐 Website: www.CardiologyFirstClinic.com

Proudly serving patients throughout New Braunfels, Schertz, Cibolo, Seguin, San Marcos, Garden Ridge, Selma, Universal City, and neighboring communities with advanced cardiovascular diagnostics and exceptional heart care. Schedule your appointment today to learn more about how a Transesophageal Echocardiogram can help protect your heart.