Echocardiography (ECHO)
What
is Echocardiography?
 An echocardiogram is a noninvasive, risk-free
test that uses ultrasound waves to assess cardiac structure and mobility,
particularly of the valves. During the test, a small transducer is held
against the chest. The transducer sends ultrasound waves that bounce off
parts of the heart. A computer uses the information coming from the
transducer to make an image of the heart. The image is displayed on a
monitor, and it can be recorded on videotape or printed on paper.
The
echocardiogram usually combines three different techniques. The M-mode echo
produces an image that looks more like a tracing than a heart (as shown in
image at left). The M-mode echo helps measure the size of the heart
chambers.
The
two-dimensional (2-D) echo shows the actual shape and motion of the
different heart structures. The images represent "slices" of the
heart in motion.
The Doppler
echo allows doctors to assess the flow of blood through the heart. You may
hear a swooshing or pulsating sound with this test. This is not the actual
sound of your heart, but an amplified computerized audio signal.
How
do I prepare for the procedure?
There is no
special preparation for echocardiography. You may eat and go about your
normal activities, unless you are told otherwise. Make sure you wear a
two-piece outfit because you will be instructed to undress from the waist
up and wear a hospital gown.
What
happens during the procedure?
You will lie
on a hospital stretcher. Electrodes (small sticky patches) are placed on
the chest and shoulders to monitor the heartbeat. You will need to lie
quietly during the test on your left side with your head elevated slightly.
An odorless water-soluble gel is applied to the chest. An Echo Tech moves
the transducer over the chest to obtain different views of your heart. You
may be asked to change positions and to exhale or hold your breath for a
few seconds. The images are recorded on videotape and printed on paper. The
Echo Tech is not authorized to give you your results. The doctor will
either be present during the test, or you may be able to get the results
before you leave. Otherwise, your doctor will discuss the results with you
during an office visit.
Why
is the Echo done?
The
echocardiogram gives doctors information about the heart, such as:
- Size of the heart - The echo is used for
measuring the size of the heart chambers and thickness of the heart
muscle.
- Pumping strength - The test shows whether
the heart is pumping at full strength or is weakened. It can also help
determine whether the various parts of the heart pump equally.
- Valve problems - The echo shows the shape
and motion of the heart valves. It can help determine if a valve is
narrowed or leaking and shows how severe the valve problem is.
- Other uses - The echo may be used to
detect the presence of fluid around the heart, blood clots, or masses
inside the heart, and abnormal holes between heart chambers.
Sometimes, the echo is combined with an exercise or dobutamine stress test to see how well the heart
pumps when it is accelerated.
Where
is the test performed?
Generally done in the
Non-Invasive Cardiology Testing Center
How
long does this test take?
The test is
painless and takes 20 to 45 minutes to complete.
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