Transoesophageal (TOE) Echocardiography Service

A trans-oesophageal echocardiogram (T.O.E.) is a heart scan that uses ultrasound (sound waves) to produce images of the heart. The scan is painless and does not use radioactivity. It involves swallowing a soft flexible tube as the pictures are taken via the gullet (oesophagus).A T.O.E. is often used to look carefully at the valves and the structure of the heart.

SEDATION

If you are having a TOE you will be given intravenous sedation for the procedure. 

The sedation is given through a cannula (small plastic tube) placed in the vein. You will feel sleepy and relaxed following the sedation but you will not be unconscious (this is not a general anaesthetic).

If you have sedation

• You must have someone to accompany you home and remain with you for 12 hours
• You must not drive or operate machinery for 24 hours
• You must not consume alcohol for 24 hours
• You should not make any vital decisions or sign any legal documents for 24 hours
• You should not take any medication not prescribed or acknowledged by your doctor

POTENTIAL PROBLEMS

• Throat discomfort
• Damage or tear to oesophagus
• Bleeding
• Infection in the lining of the heart
• Stroke

SEEK URGENT MEDICAL ATTENTION OF ANY OF THE FOLLOWING DEVELOP AFTER DISCHARGE:

• Rapid heart rate or palpitations
• Dizziness or passing out
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Numbness or weakness in the arm or leg
• Difficulty with speech.

Available at the following locations:

• Dublin