Echocardiogram Specialist

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram (sometimes called an echocardiograph) is an ultrasound imaging test performed to evaluate the structure of the heart and the flow of blood in and out of the heart. Like other ultrasound tests, echocardiograms use a handheld device called a transducer to transmit sound waves through the skin. Once inside the body, these waves are reflected by the structures inside the body, and data from these reflections is transmitted to a computer where it can be used to create images of the structures inside the body as well as ongoing processes like circulation. Echocardiograms can capture both still images and real-time video. The echocardiogram examination is painless and usually can be completed in about 45 minutes. Echocardiograms are often performed in conjunction with cardiac stress tests to assess how well the heart functions while under physical stress.

How are echocardiograms used?

Echocardiograms can play a pivotal role in managing many heart-related issues, including:

• valve problems
  
• heart murmurs
  
• arrhythmias
  
• structural defects
  
• chest pain
  
• congestive heart failure
  
• heart infections
  
• fluid buildup around the heart
  
• shortness of breath
  

In addition to their role in diagnosing heart-related problems, echocardiograms are used to manage treatment of heart diseases, including treatment administered following a heart attack.

What happens during an echocardiogram imaging test?

Echocardiograms are performed on an outpatient basis and usually take about 45 minutes to perform. When performed in conjunction with a stress test, more time will be needed for the entire process to be completed. During the echocardiogram, the patient lies on the exam table on his or her left side, and a clear gel is applied to the skin. The technician passes the transducer over the skin, sending sound waves into the chest cavity, then capturing the reflected waves and sending data back to the computer where the data is processed. Patients may be asked to briefly hold their breath during some portions of the exam to make it easier to capture images. Echocardiograms are performed in a darkened room to make it easier for the doctor or technician to see the images on the computer screen.