A specific type of echocardiogram used to capture pictures of the heart’s valves and chambers for the evaluation of its pumping action, a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) differs from a standard echocardiogram in the way ultrasound waves are administered. Rather than externally, the ultrasound transducer is mounted on a long, thin, flexible tube (endoscope) and fed through your mouth into your esophagus. Once in place, it can provide a clear view of your heart, unobstructed by the ribs or lungs. TEE is commonly performed to look for blood clots in individuals with atrial fibrillation.

When utilized in combination with Doppler ultrasound, TEE also enables the study of blood flow across the heart’s valves.