[Initial experience with transesophageal echocardiography]

The authors present their initial experience with a new echocardiographic method, transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE). From an oesophageal approach it gives a remarkable view of the anatomy and functional parameters of the heart in practically all examined patients. It opens also new diagnostic possibilities. The main advantages of the method include the possibility to use high frequency probes (5 MHz, or more), which visualize more subtile structures than transthoracic echocardiography (TEE). A valuable aspect is also the absence of interfering structures such as lungs and ribs.