Trans-Thoracic Echocardiography
High-Precision Heart Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis and Monitoring
At KidsHeart Medical Center, we use advanced cardiac imaging to gain a detailed understanding of your child’s heart structure and function.
Our Trans-Thoracic Echocardiography (TTE & TEE) services help us visualize how the heart is pumping and identify any abnormalities in a safe and non-invasive (or minimally invasive) way.
These tests play a vital role in both diagnosing congenital heart conditions and monitoring treatment progress, giving our specialists a clear view of what’s happening inside the heart.
We offer Pediatric Cardiology across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
A Heart Scan That Shows Us Exactly What's Going On
Trans-thoracic echocardiography (TTE) uses sound waves to create detailed images of your child’s heart from outside the chest — no needles, no radiation, and no discomfort.
It's the Most Common Way We Look at a Child's Heart
TTE is our first-line tool for checking heart size, how well the heart is pumping, valve function, and whether any structural differences are present — all in a single, painless scan.
When a Closer Look Is Needed, We Have That Option Too
In some cases, we use trans-esophageal echocardiography (TEE) — a more detailed scan taken from inside the esophagus. It’s done with light sedation and under careful monitoring to keep your child comfortable and safe.
We Use These Scans for Diagnosis and for Ongoing Monitoring
Whether your child has a newly suspected heart condition or has already been treated, echocardiography helps us track progress, check valve function, and plan what comes next.
You'll Know the Results Before You Leave
Our pediatric cardiologists review and interpret the scan in real time. Preliminary findings are often shared right after the test, with a full written report to follow shortly after.
Parents Can Stay Close During the Scan
For TTE, you’re welcome to be right beside your child throughout. For procedures involving sedation, our team will guide you on exactly how to support your child before, during, and after.
What Are TTE and TEE?
Trans-Thoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
TTE is the most common type of echocardiogram.
- It uses sound waves to create images of the heart from the outside of the chest.
- This helps us assess heart size, pumping function, valve function, Proximal major blood vessels, dimensions and flow status, and the presence of any structural defects.
It’s completely non-invasive and typically used as a first-line imaging tool.
When Are These Tests Recommended?
Your child may be advised to undergo TTE or TEE if:
- A congenital heart defect is suspected
- A previously diagnosed condition needs monitoring
- There are signs of heart murmurs, abnormal rhythms, or heart failure
- There is a need to evaluate valve function
- Post-surgical follow-up is required
- Heart infections or clots are suspected
What to Expect During the Procedure
For TTE:
- The child lies on a bed while a small ultrasound probe is moved across the chest.
- The process is painless, involves no radiation, and takes around 30–45 minutes.
For TEE:
- It may require light sedation or anesthesia, especially for young children.
- The probe is gently inserted into the esophagus to get close-up views of the heart.
- The test is usually done under close monitoring in a hospital setting.
Our team will explain every step and ensure your child is comfortable and safe throughout the process.
Why Choose KidsHeart?
- Pediatric Cardiology Expertise: Performed and interpreted by specialists in children’s heart care.
- State-of-the-Art Imaging Equipment: High-resolution systems for precise diagnosis.
- Child-Friendly Approach: We ensure every procedure is gentle and reassuring for both children and families.
- Multidisciplinary Coordination: Seamless communication with pediatricians, surgeons, and therapists for comprehensive care.
- Multiple Locations: Convenient access in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Al Ain.
Dr. Mohamed Sulaiman
Consultant, Fetal & Pediatric Cardiologist – American Board Assistant professor, Columbia University, New York
Dr. Ala Anbar
Consultant Pediatric Cardiologist – ARDMS/RDCS/ASE/Jordanian Board
Dr. Emile A. Bacha
Pediatric Cardiac Surgeon – American Board
Prof. Cem Karadeniz
Pediatric Electrophysiologist – MD, PhD – AEPC, EHRA, Pediatric & Congenital Electrophysiology Society
Clarity in Every Beat
At KidsHeart, we know that every detail matters when it comes to your child’s heart.
Our Trans-Thoracic Echocardiography services help us see clearly, plan better, and care with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
TTE is painless and non-invasive. TEE may require sedation, but it is well-tolerated and performed with safety as a top priority.
Preliminary findings may be shared immediately. A detailed report will follow shortly after interpretation by our cardiologists.
TTE is performed from outside the chest. TEE offers more detailed images from inside the esophagus and is used when TTE doesn’t provide enough information.
TEE is generally safe. Like any procedure involving sedation, there are small risks which are minimized by close monitoring and experienced medical staff.
Yes. For TTE, parents can stay nearby. For TEE, depending on sedation needs, we will guide you on how best to support your child before and after.