DefinitionAn echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. The picture and information it produces is more detailed than a standard x-ray image. An echocardiogram does not expose you to radiation. Show
Alternative NamesTransthoracic echocardiogram (TTE); Echocardiogram - transthoracic; Doppler ultrasound of the heart; Surface echo How the Test is PerformedTRANSTHORACIC ECHOCARDIOGRAM (TTE) TTE is the type of echocardiogram that most people will have.
An echocardiogram shows the heart while it is beating. It also shows the heart valves and other structures. In some cases, your lungs, ribs, or body tissue may prevent the sound waves and echoes from providing a clear picture of heart function. If this is a problem, the health care provider may inject a small amount of liquid (contrast) through an IV to better see the inside of the heart. Rarely, more invasive testing using special echocardiography probes may be needed. TRANSESOPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAM (TEE) For a TEE, the back of your throat is numbed and a long flexible but firm tube (called a "probe") which has a small ultrasound transducer at the end is inserted down your throat. A heart doctor with special training will guide the scope down the esophagus and into the stomach. This method is used to get clearer echocardiographic images of your heart. The provider may use this test to look for signs of infection (endocarditis) blood clots (thrombi), or other abnormal structures or connections. How to Prepare for the TestNo special steps are needed before a TTE test. If you are having a TEE, you will not be able to eat or drink for several hours before the test. How the Test will FeelDuring the test:
Why the Test is PerformedThis test is done to evaluate the valves and chambers of the heart from the outside of your body. The echocardiogram can help detect:
Your provider may recommend a TEE if:
Normal ResultsA normal echocardiogram reveals normal heart valves and chambers and normal heart wall movement. What Abnormal Results MeanAn abnormal echocardiogram can mean many things. Some abnormalities are very minor and do not pose major risks. Other abnormalities are signs of serious heart disease. You will need more tests by a specialist in this case. It is very important to talk about the results of your echocardiogram with your provider. RisksThere are no known risks from an external TTE test. TEE is an invasive procedure. There is some risk associated with the test. These may include:
Talk with your provider about the risks associated with this test. ConsiderationsAbnormal results may indicate:
This test is used to evaluate and monitor many different heart conditions. ReferencesOtto CM. Echocardiography. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 25th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2016:chap 55. Solomon SD, Wu JC, Gillam L, Bulwer B. Echocardiography. In: Zipes DP, Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Tomaselli GF, Braunwald E, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of Cardiovascular Medicine. 11th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 14. What can a transthoracic echocardiogram diagnose?TTE is useful to screen for, diagnose or follow up on specific medical conditions, including:. Aortic aneurysm or aortic dissection.. Blood clots.. Changes in electrocardiogram (ECG) results.. Congenital heart conditions.. Heart failure.. Heart valve disease.. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.. Tumors (heart cancer).. What is the difference between an echocardiogram and a transthoracic echocardiogram?While a transesophageal echocardiogram involves the insertion of a probe into the esophagus, a transthoracic echocardiogram can be performed by simply placing the probe against the skin. Both procedures use echoes from sound waves to create imagery.
What 5 abnormalities can be found on the echocardiogram?The echocardiogram can help detect:. Abnormal heart valves.. Congenital heart disease (abnormalities present at birth). Damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack.. Heart murmurs.. Inflammation ( pericarditis ) or fluid in the sac around the heart (pericardial effusion). Why is my doctor sending me for an echocardiogram?Why did my doctor order an echocardiogram? Doctors might want to see an echocardiogram to investigate signs or symptoms of heart diseases, like shortness of breath, chest discomfort or swelling in the legs. They might also order an echocardiogram if something abnormal, like a heart murmur, is detected during an exam.
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