This is an ultrasound scan of the heart. However this is a more specialised test than a standard heart ultrasound (echocardiogram). This test is often referred to as a TOE and enables the doctor to view the heart from the oesophagus, where much better images can be obtained.

When is a TOE more useful than a standard echocardiogram?

The TOE is very useful in investigating the following conditions:

1. •Blood clots within the heart
   

2. •Defects or holes between heart chambers
   

3. •Severity of valve disease
   

4. •Function of prosthetic (artificial) heart valves
   

5. •Infection of the heart valves
   

6. •Tears or blood clots in the aorta (the main artery leaving the heart)
   

7. •Masses within the heart
   

How long will the procedure take?

The procedure takes between 15 – 20 minutes, but the appointment session can take up to one and a half hours to complete.

Are there any pre-test requirements?

Do not EAT OR DRINK for at least six hours before the appointment time. We advise that there is someone to collect you and take you home. You will not be allowed to drive after the test, until the following day.

What exactly does the test entail?

Prior to the test the doctor will put a small needle into your arm, you will then be taken to the cardiac investigations unit where a nurse, technician and doctor will be in attendance.

You will be asked to lie on a trolley on your left side with a pillow supporting you head. The doctor will spray the back of your throat with a local anaesthetic to numb the back of your throat and to make the test more comfortable (this may taste bitter).

A plastic bite guard will be but in your mouth to prevent your teeth from touching the special TOE endoscope. The TOE endoscope is a flexible tube about the width of your little finger.

The doctor will inject some sedation into the needle already in your arm; this will make you very sleepy. The TOE endoscope will then be passed into your mouth and down into your oesophagus. Images of your heart will be obtained. Your blood pressure, heart rate and oxygen in your blood will be monitored throughout the procedure.

What happens after the test?

Immediately following the test you will still feel sleepy for a few minutes. Your blood pressure, pulse and oxygen levels will be checked at regular intervals. When you are fully awake you will be able to go home. You will be able to eat and drink usually 2 hours later. It is important to wait 2 hours to allow the numbness at the back of your throat to go away. You should take a sip of water and if no problems swallowing then drink a glass of water and if no further problems, then eat and drink normally. If your throat is still a little numb and you feel that the water ‘is going the wrong way’ down your throat, then wait half an hour and then try again.

When can I go home?

The doctor will assess you and will allow you to go home when he is satisfied with your condition. Usually this is 15 minutes after the procedure has finished.

Are there any precautions I should take?

We advise that there is someone to collect you and take you home.  We advise that for the rest of the day you do not: -

Drink alcohol

Operate machinery

Drive a car

As you will have had a light sedative and may be a little sleepy, someone will need to stay with you that day and overnight at home.

When will I get the results?

The doctor will explain the results to you on the same day before you go home.

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