Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE)
Close-up echo from the food pipe for valves and clots.
What happens
A thin ultrasound probe is passed into the food pipe, behind the heart, to give very clear pictures of the valves, the left atrium and any clot or hole in the heart. Your throat is numbed and a light sedative can be given.
Before your visit
Nothing to eat or drink for six hours. Bring someone with you, as you should not drive afterwards.