•Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE)
A diagnostic test in which a small ultrasound transducer is passed down the esophagus to provide a clearer image of heart structures. This test uses sound waves to produce a study of the motion of the heart's chambers and valves. Sound waves create an image on a video monitor as the transducer is passed over the heart.
•Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE)
This is another name for a standard echocardiogram or cardiac ultrasound. This non-invasive test uses sound waves to produce a study of the motion of the heart's chambers and valves. Sound waves create an image on a video monitor as a transducer is passed over the heart.
•Stress echocardiograms (in Echocardiography lab)
During this test, an echocardiogram (TTE as described above) is taken both at rest and during or shortly after the patient exercises, usually by walking or jogging on a treadmill. Breathing and blood pressure rates are also monitored. This test is used to see how well the heart muscle responds to physical exertion. A stress test may be used to detect coronary artery disease, and/or to determine safe levels of exercise following a heart attack or heart surgery.
