Where: |  | You will report to the Admitting area on the 1st floor of Park Tower, Oconee Regional Medical Center. |
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Purpose : | | This test uses sound waves to take images of your heart. This usually includes the heart chamber walls, valves, and large blood vessels connected to the heart. The probe is inserted into the esophagus (swallowing tube) so that it is located very close to the heart in order to optimize the quality of the data collected. |
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Preparation: | | Do not have anything to eat or drink for at least 8 hours before your procedure. Please check with your doctor as to which medications, if any, you may take the day of the procedure.
Bring someone with you that can drive you home after the test. |
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Procedure: | | Although the procedure time will vary depending on the reason for the test and findings, the average time is 2 hours. After receiving further explanation of the procedure, an IV will be placed and the patient will be placed on ECG and blood pressure monitors for the procedure. Medication to help the patient relax and feel comfortable will be given and the throat will be numbed with a spray. The patient will be asked to lie on their left side and the doctor will insert a thin, lubricated endoscope into the mouth. The patient will be asked to swallow to help pass the tube. Once the probe is in position, pictures of the heart are obtained at various angles.  |
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After Care: | | After the sedation has worn off, you may go home. You will not be able to drive yourself home after the test. There may be some temporary soreness of the throat. Instructions as to when you may resume eating or drinking will be given after the test. The cardiologist will review the test and results will be sent to your doctor and the results will be discussed with you.
Please call (478) 454-3620 to speak with an ultrasound technologist if you have any questions. |
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Reviewed: | | 10/17/2008
Copyright 2008, Oconee Regional Medical Center
821 N. Cobb Street Milledgeville, GA 31061, (478) 454-3505 |