The procedure is closely supervised by your cardiologist and nursing team. It is safe, well-tolerated, and any mild throat discomfort afterwards usually settles quickly with simple pain relief.
Transoesophageal Echocardiogram
A transoesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is a specialised ultrasound scan that captures detailed images of your heart from inside the oesophagus (food pipe). Because the oesophagus lies directly behind the heart, this test provides exceptionally clear pictures of the heart’s valves, chambers, and internal structures, often with far greater detail than a standard echocardiogram taken through the chest wall.It is a safe, painless, and straightforward variation of a standard echocardiogram, providing your cardiologist with detailed information about the internal structure of your heart.
Why is it performed?
A TOE is used when a clearer view of the heart is needed, especially to assess valve function, detect infections (endocarditis), or examine holes in the heart wall such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD) — which can sometimes be linked to stroke in younger patients.
It may also be performed before or after certain heart procedures or surgery to provide detailed information about the heart’s structure and function.
This advanced imaging technique helps your cardiologist make accurate diagnoses and guide the most appropriate treatment or intervention.
What does the test involve?
A mild sedative is usually given to help you relax and ensure you remain comfortable throughout the procedure.
While you lie on your side, a thin, flexible tube with a small ultrasound probe at its tip is gently passed into your oesophagus or stomach. From there, clear ultrasound images of your heart are recorded.
The procedure typically lasts 15–30 minutes and is carried out by an experienced cardiologist with nursing support to monitor your comfort and safety at all times.
- Preparation & Positioning
You will need to avoid food and drink for a few hours before the scan. A light sedative will be given to help you stay calm and comfortable during the procedure.
- During the Scan:
While lying on your side, a thin flexible tube with an ultrasound probe at the end is carefully guided into your oesophagus to capture clear, detailed images of your heart.
- Safety & Comfort:
After the test
You’ll rest in the recovery area until the effects of the sedative wear off, so it’s important to arrange for someone to accompany you home.
You may experience mild throat soreness afterwards, which can be eased with simple pain relief such as paracetamol for a day or two. You can usually eat and drink again after about an hour.
