transesofágica

Transesofágica refers to a medical procedure involving the esophagus, the muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach. The term itself is derived from Latin, where "trans" means across or through, and "esofágica" relates to the esophagus. In a medical context, "transesofágica" typically describes an approach or pathway used to access or visualize structures located behind the esophagus.

The most common medical application of this term is in the context of transesophageal echocardiography (TEE). TEE is an ultrasound examination where the transducer, a device that emits and receives sound waves, is passed down the esophagus. Because the esophagus lies directly behind the heart, placing the transducer in this position allows for clearer and more detailed images of the heart's chambers, valves, and major blood vessels compared to standard transthoracic echocardiography performed on the chest wall. This technique is valuable for diagnosing various heart conditions, guiding surgical procedures, and monitoring cardiac function.

Beyond echocardiography, the transesophageal approach might be considered in other specialized procedures where the esophagus serves as a convenient route for accessing or manipulating instruments for diagnostic or therapeutic purposes in the thoracic cavity. The procedure is generally performed under sedation or anesthesia to ensure patient comfort and minimize gagging.