A TOE is a specialised heart scan that uses ultrasound to take detailed images of your heart from inside your body. Unlike a standard echocardiogram—which is performed by a sonographer using a probe on the outside of your chest—a TOE is carried out by a cardiologist using a small probe inserted into your oesophagus. This position allows the cardiologist to view the back of the heart with much greater clarity.
TOE is often recommended when high-resolution images are needed to assess heart valves, detect blood clots, or investigate unexplained symptoms.
TOE is safe and well tolerated. However, like any medical procedure, it carries some risks. Your cardiologist has considered the benefits of this test against the risks of not performing it.
The ultrasound probe, which is attached to a flexible tube, will be gently guided through your mouth and down into your oesophagus. Once in place, the probe will capture images of your heart from behind. The scan usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.
After the test, the probe is removed, and you will be monitored in recovery.
