For what purpose is a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) typically performed?

A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is primarily performed to evaluate complex cardiac structures due to its ability to provide high-resolution images of the heart. This procedure is particularly beneficial in visualizing areas that may be difficult to assess with transthoracic echocardiography due to anatomical interference, such as in patients with lung disease or obesity. TEE allows for a clearer view of the heart's chambers, valves, and great vessels, making it an invaluable tool for diagnosing conditions like valvular heart disease, atrial septal defects, and cardiac masses or thrombi.

Other options listed, while relevant to cardiac assessment, do not fully capture the primary use of TEE. Assessing overall heart size is typically accomplished through standard transthoracic echocardiography. Although TEE can be useful in monitoring post-operative recovery, this is not its primary indication. Similarly, performing stress testing is generally conducted using other modalities such as treadmill tests or pharmacologic stress tests, rather than through TEE.