Test / Diagnostic Procedure: Transoesophageal Echocardiogram

A transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is a test using ultrasound to produce moving images of your heart. Please contact us for pricing

Bookings: bookings.hearthealth@onewelbeck.com

Tel: 020 3653 2005

What is a Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE)?

A transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE in the UK, or TEE if you are from the USA) is a test using ultrasound to produce moving images of your heart. It shows both the structure of your heart and how well it’s working.

This type of ultrasound can also be used as guide for a surgeon whilst undergoing heart surgery.


What happens during a TOE?

Your Cardiologist will pass an ultrasound probe into your oesophagus. Whilst you will be awake for this procedure, your doctor may give you a sedative to help you relax. The sedative will be given through a cannula in your arm.

You will most likely be asked not to eat for 6 hours and have only water until 2 hours before. After that you should have NOTHING to eat or drink.

Your Cardiologist will ask you to lie on your left-hand side on a bed. Your throat will be sprayed with local anaesthetic and a probe will be guided down your throat. Your consultant will ask you to swallow to help the probe into your oesophagus. The probe will send out sound waves and pick up returning echoes. These are converted into pictures of the inside of your heart and constantly updated on the monitor so the scan can show the movements.


Risks with a TOE

TOE is a safe procedure.

There are also a few complications with having this type of test including:

  • Soreness in the throat — this is common and short lasting
  • More rarely:
    • Damage or tear of your oesophagus
    • Allergic reaction to the sedative
    • Inhaling the contents of your stomach during the test

Your Cardiologist at OneWelbeck Heart Health will take you through the details and any risks before your procedure.


OneWelbeck app

OneWelbeck patients will be offered the use of the MyRecovery smartphone app. This doctor-designed app acts as a mobile patient companion to guide you through the steps to prepare for the reveal LINQ implant device and prevent and delays to your care.

The app will use two methods to provide you with a seamless reveal LINQ implant device experience by offering you the right information at the right time through:

  • Video messages from your consultant and clinical team
  • Pre-procedure checklists that are visible to you and your clinical team

Overview

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Health Insurance

This service or treatment is generally covered by most health insurance policies. You are responsible for checking your insurance policy cover, and you may need a referral letter. Check which insurance companies are covered.

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Self-Pay Available

This treatment is available for self-paying users. If you would like to see more information on pricing visit our pricing and payments page.

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Consultation Required

For this treatment you will need to have a 1-to-1 consultation at OneWelbeck first. To book in with our team of expert clinicians or to find out more about the process contact the relevant centre team.

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Fixed Price Package

For peace of mind, this service or treatment is available for an all-inclusive fixed price package.

TOE Specialists

The consultants at OneWelbeck Heart Health have been assembled based on their hard-earned international reputations and expertise. Together, they cover the major London teaching hospitals and leading cardiac services, making up the largest independent cardiology group in the UK.