An echocardiogram, frequently referred to as an “echo,” is a vital diagnostic tool employing ultrasound technology to visualize the heart and adjacent blood vessels. This non-invasive scan plays a crucial role in assessing heart health.
It falls under the category of ultrasound scans, utilizing a small probe to emit high-frequency sound waves. These waves generate echoes upon contact with different body tissues. The probe captures these echoes, converting them into dynamic images displayed on a monitor in real-time during the procedure.
A cardiologist, a physician specializing in heart conditions, or a general practitioner suspecting heart-related issues may request an echocardiogram. These tests are typically conducted in hospital or clinic settings by cardiologists, cardiac physiologists, or sonographers – specialized technicians trained in this field.
It’s important to distinguish between an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram (ECG). While both relate to the heart, an ECG focuses on measuring the heart’s rhythm and electrical activity, whereas an echocardiogram provides visual imagery of the heart’s structure and function.
Why are Echocardiograms Necessary?
Echocardiograms are instrumental in both diagnosing and monitoring various heart conditions. They achieve this by meticulously examining the heart’s structure, the functionality of surrounding blood vessels, analyzing blood flow dynamics, and evaluating the heart’s pumping chambers.
Specifically, an echocardiogram aids in detecting:
- Damage from a heart attack: Assessing the extent of injury to the heart muscle.
- Heart failure: Evaluating the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively.
- Congenital heart disease: Identifying structural abnormalities present at birth.
- Problems with heart valves: Detecting issues like valve leakage or narrowing.
- Cardiomyopathy: Identifying diseases of the heart muscle itself.
- Endocarditis: Detecting infection of the inner lining of the heart.
- Pulmonary hypertension: Assessing high blood pressure in the arteries of the lungs.
- Pericardial effusion: Detecting fluid accumulation around the heart.
- Blood clots in the heart: Identifying thrombi that may pose a risk.
- Cardiac tumors: Locating abnormal growths within the heart.
Furthermore, echocardiogram results are crucial in guiding doctors to determine the most effective treatment strategies for these diverse heart conditions.
The Echocardiogram Procedure: What to Expect
Several echocardiogram techniques exist, but the transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is the most common. The following details the TTE procedure.
Typically, no special preparation is needed for a TTE, unlike transoesophageal echocardiograms.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
For a TTE, you will need to undress from the waist up and lie on an examination table. A hospital gown may be provided for comfort and privacy.
Electrodes, small adhesive sensors, will be attached to your chest to monitor your heart rhythm throughout the test. These are connected to an ECG machine.
A clear, lubricating gel, sometimes referred to as Scan Care Gel in broader ultrasound contexts, will be applied to your chest or directly to the ultrasound probe. This gel ensures optimal contact between the probe and your skin, facilitating clear image transmission. You will be asked to lie on your left side while the sonographer moves the probe across your chest in various positions.
The probe, connected to an ultrasound machine, transmits and receives sound waves. The machine processes these waves to generate real-time images of your heart. You might hear a whooshing sound during the scan; this is normal and represents the sound of blood flow being detected by the probe.
The entire TTE procedure usually lasts between 15 and 60 minutes. You can typically return home shortly after the scan is complete.
Video Guide to Echocardiograms
[Include a link to a relevant video about echocardiograms here if available, or embed a video if possible]
This video provides a visual explanation of what to anticipate during an echocardiogram.
Alternative Echocardiogram Types
Besides the TTE, other specialized echocardiogram types are available:
- Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE): A thin probe is gently guided down your throat into the esophagus, and sometimes into the stomach, to obtain clearer images. Local anesthetic spray numbs the throat, and a sedative helps relaxation. Fasting for several hours beforehand is often required.
- Stress Echocardiogram: A TTE performed during or immediately after physical exertion (treadmill or exercise bike) or after administering medication that elevates heart rate. This assesses heart function under stress.
- Contrast Echocardiogram: A harmless contrast agent is injected into the bloodstream before a TTE. This agent enhances image clarity, providing a more detailed view of the heart, particularly blood flow and chamber outlines.
The specific type of echocardiogram chosen depends on the suspected heart condition and the level of image detail required. For example, a stress echo is useful for activity-induced heart problems, while a TOE provides superior image quality for pre-surgical planning.
Video Guide to Transoesophageal Echocardiograms
[Include a link to a relevant video about transoesophageal echocardiograms here if available, or embed a video if possible]
This video offers an expert explanation of what to expect during a transoesophageal echocardiogram.
Understanding Your Echocardiogram Results
In some instances, the technician performing the scan can provide preliminary results immediately after completion. However, usually, the scan images require detailed analysis before the official report is sent to the referring doctor. Your doctor will then discuss the findings with you during a follow-up appointment.
Risks and Side Effects of Echocardiograms
Standard transthoracic echocardiograms are considered safe, painless, and straightforward procedures with no lasting side effects. The scan care gel used is water-based and harmless, though it might feel cool upon application. Minor discomfort might be experienced during electrode removal.
Unlike X-rays and CT scans, echocardiograms do not utilize radiation. However, less common echocardiogram types carry some specific risks.
TOEs can be uncomfortable, and a temporary sore throat is common. Sedation after a TOE prohibits driving for 24 hours due to potential drowsiness. A slight risk of throat injury from the probe exists.
Stress echocardiograms can induce nausea, dizziness, and chest pain. Rarely, they may trigger irregular heartbeats or heart attacks, but continuous monitoring and prompt test termination upon any concerning signs minimize these risks.
Contrast agents used in contrast echocardiograms are generally safe, but some individuals with certain conditions or medications may be unsuitable candidates. Side effects are usually mild, such as headaches, and severe allergic reactions are rare.
Page last reviewed: 28 March 2022
Next review due: 28 March 2025
