An echocardiogram is a diagnostic medical test that uses sound waves, similar to ultrasound, to generate images of the heart. Typically, the echocardiogram allows the doctor to see how well the heart is beating. Also, this procedure can show how efficiently the heart pumps blood. An echocardiogram is usually done if the doctor suspects heart valve irregularities or if the heart's pumping ability is in question. No pre-test preparation is required for the echocardiogram procedure.
An echocardiogram is usually done in a doctor's office or hospital. The patient will lie on the exam table while the technician prepares for the test. The echocardiogram technician will apply electrodes, or patches, to various locations that will help detect heart abnormalities. Generally, during the procedure, the lights in the room will be off or dimmed so that the technician can get an optimal view of the monitor. The patient may hear a characteristic hiss of cardiac blood flow.
In general, the procedure takes about an hour. This depends, however, on the patient's condition. Sometimes the technologist may request that the patient breathe in a particular way, or ask that the patient be turned on their side for more complete test results. The procedure is usually painless, but the patient may feel mild to moderate pressure when the transducer presses on the chest area. Applying firm pressure against the chest produces sharper, sharper images of the cardiovascular system.
If the doctor finds the echocardiogram to be normal, the patient may not need further evaluation. In the event that abnormalities are discovered, the patient may be referred to a cardiologist. A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in diseases and conditions of the heart. Sometimes follow-up tests may include a heart scan or cardiac angiography. This minimally invasive procedure uses a catheter inserted into an artery to determine if a vessel is blocked. The angiogram can help doctors find the causes of blood flow problems and can help them identify aneurysms.
Cardiac ultrasound can usually reveal a normal heart size and can also help the doctor determine if the heart is pumping properly. In addition, damage to the heart muscle and valvular abnormalities can be revealed. An echocardiogram test is considered a safe medical procedure and is frequently performed on newborn babies if heart defects are suspected. Since the ultrasound mechanism does not emit radiation, cardiac ultrasound is the diagnostic medical imaging test of choice in pediatrics.