A transesophageal echocardiogram, commonly called TEE, is a specialized ultrasound test used to create detailed images of the heart. Unlike a standard echocardiogram performed from outside the chest, TEE uses a thin ultrasound probe positioned in the esophagus, allowing the cardiologist to obtain a closer view of important heart structures.
This closer perspective can provide detailed information about the heart chambers, valves, and other structures that may not be seen as clearly with imaging performed through the chest. The ultrasound probe uses sound waves to create real-time images that the cardiologist can review during the examination.