Echocardiogram

What is an echocardiogram?

Echocardiogram is a diagnostic test that provides a moving image of the heart using ultrasound. It is a very useful test for diagnosing cardiac and vascular diseases.

Echocardiographic analysis or ultrasound of the heart represents a histogram of the mobility of the heart muscle and is especially useful for the study of the functioning of the heart valves and their pathology. Likewise, this diagnostic test is very useful for the post-surgical follow-up of metallic prostheses.

What does it consist of?

It is a diagnostic test based on the use of ultrasound techniques that, by means of ultrasound emission over the thoracic area, reach several structures of the heart and reflect on them to be collected, analyzed and represented through graphs.

The development of two-dimensional ultrasound consists of an ultrasonic exploration by planes with real-time vision images that allows the calculation of volumes and areas of the valvular orifices, which serves to complete medical diagnoses.

Why is it performed?

The echocardiogram allows us to see the anatomy of the heart. That is to say, it allows us to see the cardiac cavities, the movement of the valves and any anomalies that may be present. It also allows us to see the functionality of the heart, that is, if the chambers move properly and if the valves open and close correctly.

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Preparing for the echocardiogram

No prior preparation is necessary to undergo a transthoracic echocardiogram. However, to have a transesophageal echocardiogram, it is important to fast from solids and liquids for at least six hours before the test.

What does the test feel like?

This test lasts between 10 and 30 minutes. The patient will feel a slight pressure on the chest from the transducer. The specialist may ask you to take a deep breath to catch your breath and fill your lungs.

Risks of echocardiography

The echocardiogram is a noninvasive test, so it is painless. There are no known risks associated with this test.

What abnormal results mean

An abnormal echocardiogram means there are abnormalities. These may be very small and pose no major risks. Others may be related to serious heart disease.