How Much Does Echo Transesophageal Cost?
Also known as: Echo transesophageal (CPT 93312)
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), where the ultrasound probe is passed through your mouth into your esophagus for close-up heart images.
Echo Transesophageal (CPT 93312) costs $239 at Medicare rates.
Patient Guide: Echo Transesophageal
What you need to know before your appointment
What to Expect
Your throat will be numbed with spray, and you may receive sedation through an IV. A thin, flexible probe with an ultrasound tip is guided down your throat to get very detailed images of the heart from behind.
How Long Does It Take?
30-60 minutes (plus recovery from sedation)
Common Reasons Doctors Order This
Detailed heart valve evaluation, checking for blood clots in the heart, endocarditis (heart infection), pre-cardiac surgery planning, stroke workup
How to Prepare
Fast for 6-8 hours before. Arrange a driver. Do not eat or drink until your gag reflex returns after the procedure (usually 1-2 hours).
Procedures Commonly Done Together
These procedures are frequently performed alongside Echo transesophageal
How to Reduce Your Cost for Echo transesophageal
Practical tips that can save you hundreds or thousands of dollars
- 1 Ask about cash-pay discounts
Many hospitals and clinics offer 20-40% discounts for self-pay patients. Always ask before scheduling.
- 2 Compare facility vs. office setting costs
Some procedures cost significantly less in an office setting than a hospital. Ask your provider about options.
- 3 Shop around — costs vary significantly
Costs can vary 2-3x between providers in the same city. Get quotes from multiple facilities.
How is the Price Calculated?
Medicare calculates procedure payments using Relative Value Units (RVUs). Each procedure has three components multiplied by a conversion factor ($33.40 in 2026) and adjusted by geographic cost indices.
Payment = Total RVU (7.17) x CF ($33.40) = $239
Related Procedures
Similar procedures in the same category or body system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does Echo transesophageal cost?
The Medicare facility rate for Echo transesophageal is $239. Commercial insurance rates typically range from 150% to 250% of Medicare (varies by plan).
How much does Echo transesophageal cost without insurance?
Without insurance, the cost of Echo transesophageal can range from 150% of Medicare to 500% of Medicare depending on the facility. Many hospitals and clinics offer self-pay discounts of 20-40% off their chargemaster price. Always ask about cash pricing before your visit.
Does insurance cover Echo transesophageal?
Most commercial health insurance plans and Medicare cover Echo transesophageal when ordered by a physician for a medically necessary reason. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your plan's deductible, copay/coinsurance structure, and whether you use an in-network provider. Check with your insurance company before scheduling to confirm coverage and get a cost estimate.
Why does the cost vary so much by location?
Medicare adjusts payments using Geographic Practice Cost Indices (GPCIs) that reflect local differences in physician work costs, practice expenses, and malpractice insurance. Manhattan, San Francisco, and other high-cost areas pay significantly more than rural regions. Commercial insurers follow similar geographic patterns.