Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE) is an advanced endoscopic imaging technique that provides high-resolution, detailed views of the heart and its internal structures. This method is utilized when conventional transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) provides inadequate image quality—often due to conditions such as lung disease or chest wall deformities—or when a more precise evaluation of intracardiac pathology is needed.

The procedure involves the gentle insertion of a thin, flexible probe through the mouth into the esophagus, placing it directly behind the heart. This anatomical proximity allows for the acquisition of exceptionally clear and comprehensive images. While sometimes referred to colloquially as 'heart ultrasound' or 'heart endoscopy,' TEE is distinct from TTE, which is a superficial ultrasound and does not require the same preparatory steps.

From its initial development in the 1980s, TEE technology has advanced significantly. Today's devices offer cutting-edge capabilities, delivering superior visualization that is critical for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning. This advanced imaging is particularly valuable for critically ill and intensive care patients, enabling a thorough examination of the heart and adjacent structures within the chest cavity, thereby providing reliable information to guide therapeutic decisions.