Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a common test that uses ultrasound waves to examine the heart. It is a safe and painless procedure that helps doctors diagnose a variety of heart problems. Here are answers to common questions you may have about the test, which is also known as an echo:
How does it work?
During the test, a small microphone-like device called a transducer is held against the chest. The transducer emits ultrasound waves that bounce off the various parts of the heart. A computer uses the information generated by the transducer to construct an image of the heart. The images are then displayed on a television screen and can be recorded on videotape or printed on paper.
The echocardiogram study usually combines three different techniques. The simplest technique, called an M-mode echo, produces an image that looks more like a trace than an actual heart. The M-mode echo is especially useful for measuring the exact size of the heart chambers.
A more advanced technique called the two-dimensional (2D) echo shows the actual shape and motion of the different heart structures. In a way, theses images represent slices of the heart in motion.
A third technique, called the Doppler echo, allows doctors to assess the flow of blood through the heart. The blood flow is displayed as a series of black-and-white tracings or as color images on the television screen. If you are having a Doppler echo, you may hear a whooshing or pulsating sound. This is not the actual sound of your heart, but an amplified and computerized audio signal.
Why have an echo done?
The echo test gives doctors useful information about the heart, such as:
- The size of the heart
The echo is used for measuring the size of the heart chambers and the 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 effectively.
- Valve problems
The echo shows the shape and motion of the heart vales. It can help determine if a valve is narrowed or leaking as well as how severe the problem is.
- Other uses
The test also 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 test to see how well the heart pumps when made to work harder.
Before your echo
No special preparations are necessary. You may eat and go about your normal activities, unless you are told otherwise. Make sure you wear a two-piece outfit. The echo may be done at a hospital, test center, or, most likely, at Tyler CVC.
What happens during the test?
You may be asked to undress from the waist up and put on a short hospital gown. Small sticky patches called electrodes are placed on your chest and shoulder to monitor your heartbeat.
You then lie on a hospital bed or exam table. To improve the quality of the pictures, a colorless gel is applied to the area where the transducer will be placed. This may feel cool and a bit moist, but the gel will be wiped off at the end of the test.
A technician moves the transducer over the chest, to obtain different views of your heart. He or she may ask you to change position. You may also be asked to exhale or hold your breath for a few seconds because air in your lungs can affect the echo images. The images are recorded on videotape or printed on paper, so the doctor can review them later.
How long does it take?
An echo exam usually takes between 20 and 45 minutes, depending on the number of views and whether the Doppler echo is used. Be sure to allow extra time to check in. When the test is over, you may eat and return to your normal actives.
Is the echo safe?
The echo is very safe. There are no known risks from the ultrasound waves. It is also painless, even though you may feel a slight discomfort when the transducer is held firmly against the chest
What are the benefits?
A major benefit of the echo test is that it gives information about the heart’s structures and blood flow without requiring an invasive procedure. Its major limitation is that it is often difficult to obtain good quality images in patients who have a broad chest, are obese or are suffering from chronic lung disease, such as emphysema.
Your test results
You will receive your results within five to seven business days. Your doctor will discuss the test results with you during a future office visit.
The information gained from the echo test helps your doctor make an accurate diagnosis and develop a treatment plan that’s best for you.