This study uses an ultrasound placed via the mouth into the food pipe (oesophagus) to more accurately assess the structure of the heart and aorta. Taking approximately 30 minutes it is performed in a hospital setting with the assistance of sedation and occasionally general anaesthesia.

Patients need to refrain from eating and drinking for 8 hours prior to the procedure and are observed for 4 hours following, before being discharged home. They are not able to drive or operate machinery until the day after the procedure and therefore require a responsible person to take them home.